Pakistan Cybercrime Agency Under Fire for Targeting Investigative Journalist

August 7, 2025 – Pakistan –

Pakistani journalists and media organisations have condemned a notice issued by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to investigative reporter Muhammad Akbar Notezai. The notice is linked to his investigative article in Dawn, published more than a year ago, which detailed allegations of administrative mismanagement, misuse of authority, and corruption in Balochistan. Critics say this move is a direct attack on press freedom, arguing that a newspaper article should not fall under the jurisdiction of a cybercrime agency.

The NCCIA, launched in May to replace the cybercrime division of the Federal Investigation Authority (FIA), has faced criticism over the scope of its mandate. Press freedom advocates warn that its increasing involvement in matters related to the media poses a serious threat to investigative journalism in Pakistan.

Fazil Jamili, President of the Karachi Press Club, defended Notezai’s integrity, describing him as a dedicated professional targeted for his work. Veteran journalist Mazhar Abbas also condemned the action, arguing that if the agency disputed the article’s content, it should have sought recourse through defamation proceedings or issued a public rebuttal, rather than using cybercrime laws. He called it a calculated attempt to pressure journalists and stifle independent reporting.

Shahid Rind, spokesperson for the Balochistan government, stated via social media that the provincial administration was not behind the complaint, distancing itself from the NCCIA’s action.

The incident has intensified concerns about the misuse of cybercrime legislation to intimidate journalists. Advocacy groups warn that such tactics discourage critical reporting on governance and corruption, particularly in sensitive regions like Balochistan.

Journalists and civil society groups are urging authorities to drop the case against Notezai and to reaffirm the country’s commitment to press freedom. They stress that holding power to account requires an independent media that can operate without fear of reprisal.

References –

https://www.arabnews.pk/node/2610965/pakistan