The National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Karachi Zone is grappling with a severe shortage of officers and support staff, drastically affecting its ability to respond to a growing number of cybercrime complaints.
According to official figures, out of the 1,100 inquiries filed in the past five months, only 60 could be converted into formal FIRs, leading to the arrest of merely 20 suspects. The shortage of personnel is also impacting the finalization of pending inquiries, with only 196 concluded during this period.
Sources within the agency revealed that only 43 officials are currently posted at the Karachi Reporting Center, against the sanctioned strength of 147. Key vacant posts include those of assistant directors, support officers, cyber crime analysts, legal advisers, help desk officers, and network specialists. Crucial investigation roles, such as inspectors, sub-inspectors, and assistant sub-inspectors (ASIs), are also understaffed.
The performance of the Reporting Center has been further undermined by ongoing judicial proceedings related to appointments and transfers in senior positions, stalling efforts to strengthen the workforce.
Cybercrime victims are bearing the brunt of this systemic inefficiency. With a mounting backlog of unresolved cases and delayed legal recourse, citizens are increasingly frustrated with the slow pace of justice.
