Web Desk: Interior Ministry has reportedly recommended placing Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) social media head Sadaqat Khan on the Exit Control List (ECL), with his possible arrest expected as a widening cybercrime investigation gathers momentum.
According to sources, the recommendation comes amid an ongoing investigation by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) into alleged online campaigns targeting state institutions and the Pakistan Army.
The development follows a complaint filed by Azaad Digital Chief Executive Officer Musawir Abbasi, who reportedly approached the agency after receiving threats from individuals allegedly linked to JUI-F.
The NCCIA has already arrested several individuals associated with JUI-F’s social media network as part of its investigation.
Sources familiar with the inquiry said investigators questioned the detained activists and gathered information about other individuals allegedly involved in online activities targeting state institutions and the military.
Sadaqat Khan has also emerged among the prominent names under scrutiny, alongside other individuals reportedly associated with the party’s digital operations.
Meanwhile, investigators have broadened their inquiry to examine how online content was allegedly created, promoted and circulated through multiple social media accounts.
The agency is also examining possible coordination among individuals operating different accounts and their alleged roles in running organised online campaigns.
According to sources, information obtained during interrogations has helped investigators identify additional individuals whose activities are now being examined.
The reported recommendation to place Sadaqat Khan’s name on the ECL marks another development in the expanding investigation.
Authorities are expected to consider further action as investigators assess the available evidence and identify other individuals connected to the social media network.
However, the ECL recommendation and anticipated arrest have not been independently confirmed, and no final determination of wrongdoing has been established against the individuals named in the investigation.
The NCCIA’s inquiry originated from Abbasi’s complaint but has since expanded to cover the broader activities of JUI-F-linked social media operatives.
Read more: NCCIA begins crackdown on JUIF Social Media trolls After Azaad Digital CEO’s Complaint
