The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has intensified its crackdown on illegal SIM activations, after its Zonal Office in Lahore conducted a major raid on a telecom franchise in Sheikhupura found to be involved in issuing unauthorized SIMs.

The raid was carried out in coordination with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency Lahore, following a complaint from a female citizen whose CNIC had been repeatedly misused for multiple SIM registrations without her consent.

During the operation, officials seized two mobile phones, one laptop, five Biometric Verification System devices, and 150 SIMs. Two people, including the franchise owner and a telecom company employee, were arrested.

An FIR has been registered and further investigation is underway to identify additional accomplices.

PTA said it remains committed to stopping the misuse of biometric systems and eliminating the illegal issuance of SIMs.

The authority urged citizens to immediately report any unauthorized SIMs issued against their CNIC through its helpline 0800 55055 or the online complaint portal.