ISLAMABAD: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has launched a nationwide crackdown following alleged death threats, online harassment and intimidation targeting Azaad Digital Chief Executive Officer Musawwar Abbasi, his family members and employees.
The two suspects have been arrested, while authorities are pursuing nine others allegedly involved in threatening the media organisation and conducting online character assassination campaigns.
The crackdown follows a formal complaint submitted over serious threats and alleged online harassment directed at Azaad Digital’s leadership.
According to Azaad Urdu, investigators identified 11 suspects and conducted 17 raids across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Lahore and Karachi.
The operations involved multiple NCCIA teams, with assistance from Islamabad Police and its quick response units.
The agency reportedly used cellular tracking and facial recognition technology to identify and locate suspects connected to the case.
The two arrested suspects have been identified as Naeem-ul-Haq, detained in the Morgah area of Rawalpindi, and Naveed Ahmed Abbasi, arrested in Bansra Gali, Murree.
Naveed Ahmed Abbasi previously served as a district general secretary associated with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) in Murree.
Speaking to journalists, Abbasi maintained that Azaad Digital had faced pressure following controversy surrounding publicly available drone footage.
He emphasised that disagreements over journalistic reporting should be addressed through arguments and lawful procedures rather than intimidation.
Crackdown Sends Strong Message Against Online Intimidation
The developments have renewed concerns about journalists’ safety, digital harassment and attempts to pressure independent media organisations.
The Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists previously condemned the alleged threats against Abbasi and his family, describing the situation as a serious concern for press freedom.
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The case highlights the importance of protecting journalists from threats while ensuring fair investigations, due process and accountability under the law.
