PTA, working jointly with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency, has conducted two significant enforcement operations in Lahore and Mansehra against grey traffic operators and illegal SIM sellers. These actions were initiated after receiving complaints regarding unauthorized international traffic termination and the circulation of spam messages through unlawfully activated SIMs. The coordinated raids reflect ongoing efforts to limit illegal SIM issuance and spam dissemination, while also responding to public concerns about activities that bypass mandated communication channels.
In Lahore, the PTA Zonal Office collaborated closely with NCCIA to target a grey setup operating in New Lahore City. The location was identified as a source of spam messaging linked to SIMs activated outside lawful procedures. During the operation, authorities recovered more than 650 activated SIMs along with two gateways containing 256 and 128 ports, in addition to two laptops. One individual present at the premises was sacked at the scene, and an FIR has been filed by NCCIA as part of the continuing inquiry. According to PTA, this particular raid was initiated following a formal complaint from the authority regarding the illegal routing of international communication traffic that bypassed regulated gateway exchanges. Such setups not only violate established rules but also contribute to losses for licensed operators and compromise the integrity of digital communication systems.
A second enforcement action took place in Mansehra, where PTA Zonal Office Abbottabad and NCCIA Abbottabad conducted a raid at Berkund Bazar. This site was suspected of issuing and selling pre activated international SIMs, an activity that poses significant risks for misuse due to the absence of verified user credentials. During the operation, officials confiscated mobile phones, a desktop monitor, CCTV cameras and four inactive UK SIMs. Three individuals have been summoned for questioning to assist with the investigation, and the confiscated equipment is being examined to determine the extent of the illegal activity. PTA continues to reinforce that unverified SIMs contribute to spam circulation and unauthorized communication routing, creating challenges for both users and telecom operators.
These coordinated enforcement measures reaffirm PTA’s continued focus on curbing unauthorized SIM issuance, regulating grey trafficking and addressing spam generation. The authority encourages citizens to support these efforts by reporting any suspicious SIM related activity. Complaints can be submitted through PTA’s toll free helpline 0800 55055 or through its official online portal available at this link: PTA Complaint Portal.
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