FIA Launches Nationwide Crackdown on Social Media Activists Spreading Fake Propaganda
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched a large-scale operation targeting social media activists involved in disseminating fake propaganda, resulting in multiple arrests and the registration of numerous First Information Reports (FIRs) across the country.
According to FIA officials, the Cybercrime Wing has been actively pursuing these cases:
- In Punjab, 26 individuals have been arrested, and 66 FIRs have been registered, including in Lahore.
- Islamabad’s Cybercrime Wing has registered 51 FIRs.
- In Multan, 14 arrests have been made, with over 30 cases registered.
- In Karachi, 16 FIRs have been filed, while Sukkur and Hyderabad reported four and five cases, respectively.
- Quetta has registered three FIRs during the ongoing operation.
In total, 30 social media activists have been arrested nationwide for spreading fake news and propaganda.
Officials stressed the importance of combating misinformation to maintain national harmony and order.
Government Response and Legislative Action
Earlier, Parliamentary Secretary Sajid Mehdi addressed the National Assembly regarding the government’s efforts to curb the spread of fake news. He revealed that 86,000 SIM cards had been blocked for alleged anti-state activities.
In response to a call-to-attention notice by Asiya Naz Tanoli, Mr. Mehdi acknowledged that the government temporarily blocked access to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to counter misinformation. Additionally, the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) has been restricted to control the dissemination of false information.
Mr. Mehdi also announced upcoming amendments to the Electronic Crimes Act to strengthen regulations against fake news, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing this growing challenge.
