Islamabad, Feb 21: Police have registered three cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) 2025 against individuals accused of sharing AI-generated deepfake videos and defamatory content targeting Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and state institutions. The cases, filed at Shahdara, Shahdara Town, and Kot Lakhpat police stations, invoke multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), including 500, 504, and 505-1(C).
The FIRs were lodged by local citizens and businessmen, though authorities have yet to make any arrests. According to the Shahdara Town FIR, complainant Mohammad Amir accused an individual, Rana Mohammad Dawood, of uploading an AI-generated immoral video of Maryam Nawaz on Facebook, allegedly aimed at damaging her reputation. The complainant provided a Facebook link as evidence to support his claim.
READ MORE: Oil Extends Rally as US Demand Grows, Russia Risks Loom
In a separate complaint filed at Kot Lakhpat police station, complainant Abdul Raoof alleged that an unknown individual operating a social media page titled ‘The Last Hope’ had posted fabricated videos and images of Maryam Nawaz, along with propaganda against state institutions. Meanwhile, another complainant, Khalid Yasin of Shahdara, accused certain individuals of spreading false narratives and derogatory remarks against national security agencies.
Authorities are currently investigating the cases, with efforts underway to trace those responsible for spreading deepfake videos and misinformation. While no arrests have been made so far, officials emphasize that strict action will be taken against those involved in digital defamation and online propaganda.
The incident highlights the growing concern over AI-generated misinformation and its potential impact on political figures and institutions, prompting law enforcement agencies to ramp up monitoring and enforcement efforts under cybercrime laws.
