Top Cyber Agency Faces Shake-Up Amid Allegations of Internal Mafia

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is bracing for a major overhaul following reports of an alleged “cybercrime mafia” operating within the institution, prompting the government to initiate sweeping administrative and disciplinary measures.

According to informed sources, a reshuffle at the top level is imminent, with senior police officer Syed Khurram Ali expected to assume charge of the agency’s leadership. The government, however, plans to go beyond routine transfers—launching a far-reaching crackdown on officers accused of corruption, abuse of power, and financial irregularities.

Officials said several NCCIA personnel are likely to face termination and formal investigations after internal reports exposed irregularities in recruitment processes, falsified promotions, and post upgrades based on manipulated records. Many previously shelved inquiries and criminal cases against these officials are also being reopened for fresh examination.

In what sources described as a “comprehensive clean-up,” the investigation will delve into allegations of money laundering, misuse of official authority, and unauthorized foreign fund transfers. Officers’ foreign travel histories, overseas bank accounts, and cryptocurrency assets—including Bitcoin and other digital holdings—are now under scrutiny.

Authorities have vowed that this time, the inquiry will be conducted by “officers of unimpeachable integrity,” known for their independence and resistance to external influence.

“This time, the investigation will be handled by those who cannot be approached,” a senior official familiar with the development told The Financial Daily.

The restructuring is aimed at restoring credibility to Pakistan’s top cybercrime agency amid growing concerns about internal corruption and compromised investigations in sensitive digital cases.