The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has arrested 42 suspects in a case involving alleged child sexual exploitation and pornography, raising fresh concerns about online safety in Pakistan. Deputy Director Shahzad Akbar announced the arrests on Friday, October 23, while outlining the agency’s recent actions against cybercrime.
Addressing a press conference, Shahzad Akbar said the agency had targeted a network allegedly involved in pornography and the creation of fake videos. He also shared details of operations conducted over the past week, including investigations into online exploitation and compromised accounts.
According to the deputy director, the agency recovered 39 hacked accounts within a week and blocked more than 70 accounts allegedly involved in anti-state activities.
NCCIA Investigates Alleged Child Exploitation Through Dark Web
Shahzad Akbar said the NCCIA conducted a raid the previous night in a case involving the alleged sexual exploitation of underage children through the dark web.
According to his account, 12 children had been targeted through these activities. He also stated that children received Rs6,000 for every $100 involved in the activity, although the precise payment arrangement was not explained further.
The deputy director warned that online exploitation poses serious risks to children’s safety and privacy. Moreover, he highlighted concerns about the use of artificial intelligence to target minors.
The case has drawn attention to the potential dangers children face through online platforms and hidden internet networks, particularly when offenders exploit digital tools to approach vulnerable users.
NCCIA Secures Girl Aged 14 to 15 in Dark Web Case
Shahzad Akbar said the agency had secured a girl aged between 14 and 15 who had allegedly become a victim in the dark web case.
He explained that the girl used social media platforms and messaging applications. According to him, certain messaging applications could lead users towards the dark web.
The official also said the girl’s parents had noticed changes in her behaviour over the previous six months. However, the statement did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding her alleged exploitation.
The case highlights the importance of recognising potential warning signs and taking children’s online safety seriously. Parents and guardians must remain attentive to changes in behaviour while maintaining open, supportive communication with young people.
NCCIA Blocks More Than 70 Accounts Over Anti-State Activities
Alongside the child exploitation investigation, the NCCIA continued its action against accounts allegedly involved in anti-state activities.
Shahzad Akbar said the agency had arrested a suspect named Hamza the previous day. According to the official, the suspect had allegedly shared anti-state content since March 2026.
The deputy director also raised concerns about the hacking of WhatsApp Business accounts. He warned that advertisements appearing while users browsed online content could contain bugs that might pose cybersecurity risks.
However, the statement did not identify specific advertisements or explain the technical details behind the reported threat.
AI and Online Platforms Raise Fresh Cybersecurity Concerns
The NCCIA’s recent operations have highlighted several areas of concern, including alleged child exploitation, hacked accounts, prohibited online content and suspicious digital activity.
Furthermore, Shahzad Akbar’s warning about artificial intelligence reflects growing concerns about the potential misuse of digital technologies against minors. The agency’s actions also underline the importance of protecting personal accounts and exercising caution when interacting with unfamiliar online content.
The NCCIA has reported arrests and account recovery efforts as part of its recent operations. Meanwhile, the allegations in the child exploitation case underscore the need for continued attention to online safety and the protection of vulnerable users.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
