Notices issued to suspects under PECA

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad inspector general of police has initiated decisive action against individuals allegedly involved in a malicious social media campaign aimed at spreading fake news and inciting unrest in the country.

Notices have been issued to several suspects, including Sabghatullah Virk, Muhammad Arshad, Attaur Rehman, Azhar Mashwani, Komal Afridi, Uroosa Nadeem Shah, and M. Ali Malik. A Joint Investigation Team (JIT), formed under the IGP, has summoned the suspects to appear on December 13 for questioning.

The federal government had established the JIT under Section 30 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 to investigate criminal activities on social media. The team is tasked with uncovering the motives behind the campaign and identifying accomplices involved in orchestrating and disseminating online propaganda.

Authorities claim to have gathered substantial evidence implicating the suspects in spreading fake news and engaging in activities designed to incite chaos and anarchy.

The investigation seeks to identify additional individuals linked to the campaign and pursue legal action under PECA and other applicable laws. Law enforcement officials allege that the suspects used social media platforms to share false and inflammatory content, undermining public order. The JIT’s findings reportedly include digital evidence supporting these allegations. The suspects are expected to provide statements to the JIT on December 13. Based on the outcomes of the interrogation, the JIT may recommend legal proceedings against those found guilty of violating PECA or other laws.