The establishment of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) by the federal government marks a significant step in addressing cybercrime in Pakistan. As per a notification in The Gazette of Pakistan issued by the information ministry, the NCCIA will have jurisdiction under the Prevention of Electronic Crime Act, 2016, superseding the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) as the designated investigation agency under the Act.

The notification stipulates that all personnel, cases, inquiries, investigations, assets, liabilities, rights, obligations, privileges, and related matters concerning the defunct cybercrime wing of the FIA will be transferred to the NCCIA.

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The NCCIA will be comprised of various hierarchical positions, including a Director General, Additional Directors General, Directors, Additional Directors, Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors, and other officers as determined by the Director General. The Director General, appointed by the Federal Government for a two-year term, must be a grade 21 or 22 officer and will wield powers equivalent to those of an Inspector General of Police.

This development underscores the government’s commitment to combatting cybercrime effectively and underscores the growing importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding national interests and protecting citizens’ digital rights.