The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has established a dedicated cryptocurrency investigation unit within its newly operational National Command and Control Center (NC3) to strengthen efforts against money laundering, terrorism financing, and other financial crimes involving digital assets.
The initiative marks a significant step in Pakistan’s evolving approach to investigating cryptocurrency-related offenses while separating regulatory oversight from criminal enforcement.
FIA Defines Roles for Crypto Regulation and Investigations
Speaking about the initiative, FIA Counter Terrorism Wing Director Dr. Muhammad Athar Waheed said the newly formed unit will focus on investigating the criminal use of cryptocurrencies.
He clarified that the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) will remain responsible for regulating virtual assets and overseeing the country’s digital asset framework, while the FIA will investigate cases involving illegal activities.
Dr. Waheed also urged the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) and the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) to establish dedicated cryptocurrency units to help tackle cybercrime, drug trafficking, and other offenses involving digital currencies.
He added that new procedural rules are being prepared to ensure investigations are completed within fixed timelines.
NC3 to Serve as Central Intelligence Hub
According to the FIA, the National Command and Control Center (NC3) has been developed as a centralized platform for intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and nationwide law enforcement support.
The facility brings together multiple specialized units responsible for immigration monitoring, integrated border management, anti-money laundering investigations, cryptocurrency investigations, risk analysis, human trafficking, migrant smuggling, cyber patrolling, dark web investigations, and coordination with Interpol.
The center also includes a digital case management system, a 24-hour public helpline, and complaint management services aimed at improving public access to FIA services.
FIA Expands Operational Capacity
To strengthen enforcement capabilities, the FIA has also established Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams to support high-risk operations.
Officials said the agency has expanded its operational vehicle fleet and created the position of Director International Coordination to improve cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies.
The FIA is currently recruiting around 1,300 new personnel, with plans for additional hiring to further enhance its investigative and operational capacity.
Crackdown on Human Trafficking Continues
FIA officials said the agency has also intensified action against human trafficking networks.
According to official figures, more than 300 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered against trafficking groups over the past two years, resulting in the arrest of 258 suspected agents.
The agency said its operations have dismantled several trafficking networks and contributed to a reduction in deadly migrant boat tragedies involving Pakistani nationals.
The establishment of the cryptocurrency investigation unit reflects Pakistan’s broader efforts to strengthen financial crime enforcement as digital assets become increasingly integrated into the global financial system. Authorities say closer coordination between investigative agencies and regulators will be essential to addressing emerging risks linked to virtual currencies while supporting a more secure digital economy.
