The Punjab government has empowered the Crime Control Department (CCD) to take action against organised criminal groups involved in online fraud using electronic devices, following a surge in cybercrimes across the province.

Officials said online frauds are causing significant financial losses to common citizens, with many losing their life savings, while salaried individuals and business owners have become easy targets.

Reports indicate that some criminal groups are even exploiting beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme.

Certain organised gangs are also involved in short-term kidnappings for ransom, although in many cases, formal complaints are not registered.

According to authorities, criminal elements nationwide are using online platforms and electronic devices to defraud citizens.

Following the Punjab government’s decision, the CCD will not only conduct intensive operations against such offenders but will also pursue legal action to identify assets acquired through online fraud and confiscate properties worth billions of rupees.

The move comes after the CCD’s recent success in anti-narcotics operations, demonstrating the department’s capacity to handle high-profile organised crime effectively.