The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), has conducted two significant raids targeting illegal SIM sales and grey traffic operations in Lahore and Mansehra. These actions are part of PTA’s ongoing efforts to curb unauthorized telecom activities and ensure lawful communication services.
In Lahore, the PTA Zonal Office, working alongside NCCIA, raided a grey traffic setup in New Lahore City. The network was reportedly involved in sending spam messages using illegally activated SIM cards. During the operation, authorities seized 660 Jazz SIMs, 22 Ufone SIMs, two gateways with 256 and 128 ports, and two laptops. One person was arrested at the scene, and an FIR has been registered. The raid followed a PTA complaint regarding the illegal termination of international traffic bypassing authorized gateways.
Meanwhile, in Mansehra, the PTA Zonal Office Abbottabad and NCCIA Abbottabad raided Berkund Bazar to target the illegal issuance and sale of pre-activated international SIMs. The team confiscated mobile phones, a desktop monitor, CCTV cameras, and four inactive UK SIMs. Three individuals were summoned for further investigation.
These operations underscore PTA’s commitment to preventing illegal SIM issuance, spam messaging, and grey traffic operations. Officials stress that such unauthorized activities not only harm the telecom industry but also pose security risks to the public.
PTA has urged citizens to report any illegal SIM activity immediately. Complaints can be lodged through the toll-free helpline 0800-55055 or via PTA’s online complaint portal.
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Through these enforcement actions, PTA aims to strengthen regulation, protect lawful telecom operations, and maintain cybersecurity standards across the country.
