Over a Thousand Suspects Were Arrested Over Online Fraud Complaints in 2024

New details emerging from government documents shed light on the scale of online fraud in Pakistan during the year 2024. According to these official records, 13,722 complaints were lodged by citizens who fell victim to fraud through online platforms. Law enforcement agencies took action, registering 832 cases against individuals involved in online fraud. These efforts led to the arrest of 1212 suspects throughout the year. However, the data reveals a significant backlog in the judicial process. Out of the 1212 individuals apprehended in connection with online fraud in 2024, final verdicts were reached in only 17 cases. Despite these challenges, authorities reported recovering a substantial amount of money from those involved in online scams. In 2024, a total of Rs. 652.62 million were successfully retrieved from online fraudsters. The Ministry of Interior has acknowledged the gravity of the situation and outlined ongoing efforts to combat online fraud. These initiatives include public awareness campaigns through educational institutions, media outlets, and social media platforms. These campaigns are educating the populace on how to avoid online scams. Furthermore, the ministry highlighted the active role of the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) online portal, which is diligently working to facilitate online fraud complaint registration. Although law enforcement agencies actively pursue cases and recover funds, the low conviction rate showcases the need for involvement in prosecuting such crimes. The government’s focus on preventative measures through awareness campaigns and accessible reporting mechanisms indicates a multi-pronged approach to tackling this growing issue.