Urdu Report Desk
Pakistan’s National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has arrested Faheem Akram, the alleged mastermind of a counterfeit US postage stamp scheme that targeted American customers and reportedly caused losses exceeding $126 million to the US Postal Service.
The arrest was made in Lahore following an extensive investigation involving digital surveillance, data analysis and searches at multiple locations. The US government had announced a reward of $100,000 for information leading to Akram’s arrest.
Advanced Technology Used to Trace Suspect
According to NCCIA officials, investigators analysed 122 call data records, 50 International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) tracking reports and audio and video recordings from 120 cameras.
The investigation also involved a 10-day tracking operation to locate the suspect. Authorities conducted raids at 35 locations and questioned 47 people during the operation.
Officials described the arrest as a significant achievement for law enforcement agencies.
US Authorities Allege $126 Million Postal Fraud
According to the US Department of Justice, Faheem Akram is accused of operating a counterfeit postage stamp scheme that allegedly caused more than $126 million in losses to the US Postal Service.
In a statement posted on social media, the department had previously announced that the suspect’s website had been shut down, while the search for him continued.
The US authorities had also offered a $100,000 reward for assistance in locating and arresting him.
More Than Five Million Counterfeit Stamps Allegedly Sold
According to details released in the case, Akram allegedly sold more than five million counterfeit US postage stamps through a website between 2023 and 2026.
Investigators said the stamps were sold for $2 each. The alleged operation reportedly used 16 bank accounts to handle financial transactions.
The accounts included those belonging to Akram himself, his brother, wife, sister and maternal aunt, according to the information provided by investigators.
Joint Investigation Team Formed
Atif Amir, Additional Director of the NCCIA Lahore Zone, has formed a joint investigation team to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the case.
The team will investigate the alleged sale of counterfeit postage stamps, examine financial transactions and determine the roles of other individuals potentially linked to the network.
The investigation is expected to focus on tracing the financial flows and identifying any additional people involved in the alleged scheme.
