Fake UK Relatives, Fake Emergencies: Fraud Gang Arrested in Islamabad

The National Counter Crime Investigation Agency has arrested 8 members of a financial fraud gang in the Khanna Pul area, busting a network involved in impersonation and online deception. The suspects were reportedly impersonating relatives and friends residing abroad, particularly in the United Kingdom, and deceiving citizens by fabricating medical emergencies to extort money. In one confirmed case, the gang defrauded a victim of Rs. 1.5 million, which was transferred to the bank account of the main accused. NCCIA officials said the arrests were made during a targeted operation conducted on December 12, following intelligence reports about organized financial scams operating from the area. The agency said the gang exploited emotional trust and overseas connections to deceive victims. Those arrested have been identified as Mohammad Salman, Mohsin Jameel, Nazakat Ali, Mehtab Ali, Mohammad Shah Nawaz, Nasir Ali, Abid Hussain, and Fahad Jabbar. All suspects are currently in custody as authorities expand the investigation to identify additional victims and financial trails. A case has been registered under FIR No. 335/25 and Inquiry No. 2512/25 under relevant sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 and the Pakistan Penal Code. NCCIA said further arrests are likely as the probe progresses. The operation was led by Sub Inspector Shahroz Riaz, with team members Babar Ali, Fahad Altaf, Wasim Shehzad, and Kosar Niazi. Officials said coordinated intelligence work and swift enforcement action helped dismantle the fraud network. NCCIA reiterated that it will continue operations against financial crimes and cyber fraud to protect citizens from digital and impersonation-based scams.