NCCIA DG Waqar-ud-Din Syed Transferred Amid Money Extortion Allegations

In a major administrative reshuffle, the federal government has appointed Khurram Ali, a senior officer from the Police Service of Pakistan, as the new Director General of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). This appointment follows the transfer of Waqar-ud-Din Syed, who previously held the position and has now been directed to report to the Establishment Division.

According to an official notification issued by the Cabinet Secretariat, Establishment Division on October 28, 2025, the change has been made with immediate effect and will remain in place until further orders.

The change comes amid a turbulent period for the NCCIA, which has been at the center of a high-profile corruption and misconduct scandal. Earlier this year, the agency gained nationwide attention following the arrest of popular YouTuber Ducky Bhai^[1] on August 17, 2025, at Lahore Airport. He was accused of promoting illegal online gambling and betting applications such as Binomo, 1xBet, and Bet365, allegedly defrauding users for personal gain.

Authorities registered a case against him under multiple sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016, and the Pakistan Penal Code. The arrest triggered widespread debate over accountability and ethics in Pakistan’s digital space, pushing the government to tighten oversight of online influencers.

The NCCIA operates under the Interior and Narcotics Control Division and plays a vital role in combating digital crimes, data breaches, and online frauds across Pakistan. The agency’s formation, under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening cybersecurity frameworks and ensuring accountability in the digital space.

A senior official remarked,

“The appointment of Khurram Ali marks a new phase for NCCIA as Pakistan advances its cyber defense and digital security infrastructure.”

This leadership transition is expected to enhance operational efficiency and bolster Pakistan’s response to the growing threat of cybercrimes, ensuring stronger enforcement and public trust in digital safety.