LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has arrested 11 ‘social media activists’ in different cities of Punjab for allegedly spreading anti-state propaganda and inciting unrest among the public.

According to the NCCIA Punjab spokesperson, the 11 individuals had been under surveillance. They were allegedly involved in spreading provocative content and running campaigns against state institutions, particularly the army, through social media and other online platforms.

The NCCIA spokesperson said raids were carried out on Thursday and two suspects were arrested from Lahore, three from Faisalabad, four from Multan, and one from Gujranwala on charges of anti-state propaganda and creating unrest among the public.

The spokesperson added that digital evidence and social media records were being collected from the arrested individuals to trace their possible networks and online activities.

The arrested suspects have been booked under different sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), 2016.

NCCIA Punjab Director Muhammad Ali Waseem said that no leniency would be shown towards those involved in anti-state propaganda and attempts to spread panic and instability among the public. He added that the crackdown against such elements would continue and strict legal action would be taken in accordance with law.

Earlier this month, the NCCIA Punjab arrested 13 ‘anti-state social media activists’ in different cities of Punjab. It claimed the arrested suspects were involved in running a campaign against the state, particularly the army and government functionaries, across various social media platforms. Some of the suspects were also allegedly involved in posting content targeting Gulf countries.