The federal government on Saturday constituted a five-member joint investigation team (JIT) to investigate an organized anti-state social media campaign deemed “malicious” and “detrimental” to country’s national interests.
The JIT, formed under Section 30 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), 2016, will identify and prosecute individuals responsible for creating chaos and disorder in Pakistan through online propaganda.
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The JIT comprises Islamabad police chief as its convener, two senior Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials, director of cybercrime (FIA), director of the counter-terrorism wing (FIA), deputy inspector general (Investigation), and senior superintendent of police (Counter Terrorism Department).
The panel has the authority to co-opt additional members as needed.
The JIT’s primary objectives are to:
- Investigate and determine the organized objectives of the accused and their accomplices
- Identify and prosecute culprits in accordance with applicable laws
The development comes days after the establishment of special courts by the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition government to conduct trials of cases under the Peca Act.
The move underscores the government’s commitment to combating online threats to national security and stability.
