Punjab to launch cyber crime unit to protect women and children

In a major step to combat online abuse, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved the establishment of a dedicated cyber crime unit aimed at tackling harassment and blackmail targeting women and children.

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting in Lahore to address the growing misuse of social media platforms. Under the new initiative, victims will no longer need to visit police stations to file complaints. Instead, mobile complaint units will be sent directly to their homes to register cases.

In addition, victims will be able to report incidents through a virtual police station, front desk services, and the Punjab Police Khidmat Markaz (PKM) app. Authorities have assured that complainants’ identities will remain strictly confidential to encourage more people to come forward.

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The Punjab government is also working on new legislation, titled the Punjab Online Safety Act 2026, which aims to impose strict penalties on individuals involved in online harassment and blackmail. The draft of the law is currently being prepared and is expected to be presented soon.

To further strengthen enforcement, plans are underway to establish a Cyber Patrol Wing and a Cyber Police Academy. These institutions will enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies to deal with emerging digital threats.

Maryam Nawaz directed officials to adopt a proactive strategy against cyber criminals and ordered the development of an intelligence-based monitoring system for social media platforms. She also stressed the importance of safeguarding cyber data.

Describing cyber crime as a “major challenge,” the chief minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting young people. She urged parents to monitor their children’s online activities and emphasized that strict action will be taken against offenders.