Police say the investigation is targeting individuals allegedly using SIMs registered to others to operate social media accounts and blackmail officials and citizens.
PESHAWAR: Police in Peshawar have launched action against individuals allegedly using SIM cards registered in other people’s names to create WhatsApp and social media accounts and carry out alleged blackmailing.
Police have arrested a suspected individual active on social media under the name “Gul Makai” and expanded their investigation into the alleged network.
According to investigative sources, the Facebook page associated with the name had allegedly uploaded material targeting civil bureaucracy officials, security forces and other authorities. Reports have also emerged that WhatsApp accounts were allegedly created using SIMs registered to other people and used to blackmail police officers and citizens.
Sources said certain individuals were also allegedly facilitating criminal elements, land-grabbing groups and other groups in various illegal activities.
The arrested suspect has been handed over to law enforcement authorities for further investigation. Authorities are also searching for other individuals allegedly involved in uploading content to the Facebook page.
Police sources said complaints had emerged involving WhatsApp accounts created using SIMs registered in the names of men, women and unsuspecting citizens. Investigators have begun questioning the individuals whose names appear on the SIM registrations to identify the actual users.
Cybercrime-related agencies have also reportedly started examining the matter. Police officials said legal action would be taken against those allegedly misusing other people’s identities and SIMs to blackmail government officials, personnel and citizens.
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