Islamabad, Sep 13: PTA Blocks 5,300 Mobile Phones in FY24.
Furthermore, 4,507 International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers linked to illegal use have been blocked by the authorities. 113 national ID cards were blacklisted as part of the raid, while 19,730 mobile phones that were discovered to be connected to various unlawful acts were warned.
SIMs involved in illegal activities are reported to the PTA under different categories. In matters related to national security, the blocking of SIMs is conducted under directives from the Ministry of Interior (MoI), Directorate General ISI, and Signals Directorate GHQ. Following a directive from the MoI dated July 25, 2023, the PTA Blocked Mobile Phones identified as being used by criminals in the “Kacha” areas of Sindh, particularly in the districts of Shikarpur and Ghotki.
In addition, the PTA has started a gradual campaign to stop the illicit usage of SIM cards for mobile phones nationwide. First phase: SIMs registered with canceled ID cards or fraudulent credentials were targeted for deactivation starting August 16, 2024.
Beginning on September 2, 2024, the second phase aims to prohibit SIM cards associated with expired identification cards. The deactivation of SIM cards registered in the names of deceased people will be the focus of the third phase.
The PTA states that using a SIM card for a mobile phone illegally—which is frequently connected to other illicit activities—will never be accepted.
