ISLAMABAD — The Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting was briefed on Thursday that merely nine out of 372 eligible cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) have been transferred to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). This revelation comes despite recent amendments to Peca, which were designed to streamline the investigation process by granting NCCIA exclusive authority over such cases.
What Happened
During a session held on July 24, the Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting received a detailed briefing regarding the implementation of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) amendments. The amendments, enacted in 2025, aimed to centralize the investigation of cybercrime cases by designating the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) as the sole body responsible for handling such offenses.
However, the committee was informed that out of the 372 cases eligible for transfer to NCCIA, only nine have been successfully moved. This slow pace of implementation has raised concerns among committee members about the efficacy of the amendments and the operational readiness of the NCCIA. The committee members questioned the reasons behind the sluggish transfer process and sought explanations from relevant authorities.
Officials present at the meeting attributed the delay to bureaucratic hurdles and the need for further capacity building within the NCCIA. They emphasized the importance of equipping the agency with adequate resources and trained personnel to handle the increasing volume of cybercrime cases effectively. A representative stated, “The transition is ongoing, and we are working diligently to ensure that NCCIA is fully prepared to take on its new responsibilities.”
Background
The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) was originally enacted to address the growing threat of cybercrime in Pakistan. Over the years, the Act has undergone several amendments to enhance its scope and effectiveness. The most recent amendments in 2025 were particularly significant as they granted the NCCIA exclusive authority to investigate offenses under Peca, aiming to streamline processes and improve the overall response to cybercrime.
Prior to these amendments, cybercrime cases were handled by various law enforcement agencies, leading to jurisdictional overlaps and inefficiencies. The establishment of NCCIA was intended to centralize efforts and provide a specialized focus on combating cybercrime, which has been on the rise due to increased internet penetration and digital transactions in the country.
Why It Matters
The limited transfer of cases to the NCCIA is a matter of concern for several reasons. Firstly, it raises questions about the effectiveness of the recent legislative amendments aimed at improving cybercrime investigations. If the NCCIA is unable to promptly take over its designated role, the intended benefits of the amendments may not be realized, leaving cybercrime victims without timely justice.
Economically, cybercrime poses a significant threat to Pakistan’s digital economy. The slow implementation of Peca amendments could undermine investor confidence in the country’s ability to protect digital assets, potentially impacting foreign investment and economic growth. Moreover, the delay in transferring cases may embolden cybercriminals, knowing that enforcement mechanisms are not fully operational.
From a social perspective, the inability to effectively combat cybercrime could lead to increased incidents of online fraud, harassment, and data breaches, affecting citizens’ trust in digital platforms. This could hinder the government’s efforts to promote digital literacy and inclusion as part of its broader development agenda.
Key Takeaways
- Only nine out of 372 eligible Peca cases have been transferred to NCCIA.
- The Senate committee expressed concerns over the slow implementation of Peca amendments.
- Delays attributed to bureaucratic hurdles and the need for NCCIA capacity building.
- Effective cybercrime enforcement is crucial for Pakistan’s digital economy and citizen trust.
- The NCCIA’s readiness is critical to the success of Peca’s legislative amendments.
Source Attribution
This article is based on official government statements, press releases, and public communications from relevant authorities.
