Islamabad: In a continued effort to curb illegal activities in the telecommunications sector, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in conjunction with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Circle, conducted a raid on a PTML (Ufone) franchise in Mianwali, uncovering illegal operations involving the issuance of SIM cards.

According to Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, the raid targeted Khan Telecommunication located near UBL Ballo Khel Road. The authorities seized various equipment, including a laptop, three Biometric Verification System (BVS) devices, and a mobile phone from which 5,000 digital images of fingerprints were recovered. The owner of the franchise was arrested on-site, and a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed by the FIA, with further investigations underway.

This operation is part of the PTA’s broader initiative to eliminate the unauthorized distribution of SIM cards, following previous complaints filed with the FIA regarding illegal practices by certain sales channels. The crackdown underscores the authority’s commitment to ensuring compliance with telecommunication regulations and safeguarding consumer interests.