LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) will establish a dedicated special cell in Punjab to ensure the prompt registration, investigation, and prosecution of cybercrime cases involving women and children, according to an official statement.

NCCIA Punjab Director Muhammad Ali Wasim said in the statement on Wednesday that the initiative was aimed at providing the victim women and children with expedited legal assistance, protection and institutional support while ensuring that complaints were investigated without delay.

“Cases involving online harassment, cyberstalking, blackmail, digital exploitation, identity theft, misuse or circulation of private photographs and videos, as well as other technology-enabled offences against women and minors will be processed through the newly established specialised unit,” he said.

The official added that all such cases would remain under the direct supervision of the relevant deputy director to ensure close monitoring, swift investigations, and effective coordination, which he said would enable the NCCIA to respond more efficiently.

“We have adopted a zero-tolerance policy against individuals involved in cyber offences. Those found involved in such crimes will face strict legal action in accordance with the relevant laws,” he said.

He said the purpose of the dedicated cell was to provide a safer digital environment for women and children amid growing concerns over the misuse of online platforms for harassment, intimidation, and exploitation.

“Every victim should approach the NCCIA without fear, and every complaint will be dealt with promptly and in accordance with the law,” Wasim said.

Advocacy organisation Digital Rights Foundation (DRF), in its recently released 2025 annual report, warned of a sharp rise in cyber harassment cases in the country, particularly involving minors. The report also highlighted persistent barriers to justice, with an average of 250 cases reported each month.

Cases involving minors increased by 28 per cent in 2025, reaching 159 from 124 a year earlier, the report said.

It added that Punjab accounted for 69.5pc of the reported cases, which the DFR attributed to both population size and relatively better access to reporting mechanisms.

The report said that despite 79pc of cyber harassment cases in the country being referred to the NCCIA, access to justice remained limited, with only 51pc of complaints originating from cities with operational cybercrime offices, forcing many victims to travel long distances.