Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has activated a dedicated cryptocurrency investigation unit, marking a significant step in curbing the use of digital assets for money laundering and terrorism financing. The unit operates within the newly operational National Command and Control Centre (NC3), a centralized platform designed to enhance inter-agency coordination and real-time monitoring. Main Developments Dr Muhammad Athar Waheed, Director of the FIA Counter-Terrorism Wing, confirmed the unit's formation to Dawn. He clarified that while the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) oversees digital asset regulation, the new FIA unit will specifically investigate criminal misuse of cryptocurrencies. Waheed urged the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) and Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) to establish similar units to tackle cybercrimes and drug-related transactions involving virtual currencies. New procedural rules are being drafted to ensure time-bound completion of all inquiries. Read also: Trump invokes 1930s trade law for 50% tariffs on Canadian goods Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has been instrumental in modernizing the FIA, providing the support needed to launch these reforms, Waheed noted. The agency expects several additional key projects to conclude within the next six months. Background The NC3 serves as a unified command platform, integrating the FIA's Immigration Monitoring Unit, Integrated Border Management System (IBMS), and Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Desk. These units provide real-time oversight of traveler movements, biometric verification, and intelligence-led operations against smuggling networks. The centre also houses a Risk Analysis Unit to identify high-risk individuals and suspicious travel patterns, alongside dedicated anti-money laundering (AML) and virtual currency investigation units. An Interpol Desk facilitates international law enforcement cooperation. Over the past two years, the FIA has registered more than 300 First Information Reports (FIRs) related to human trafficking, resulting in 258 arrests and the dismantling of multiple trafficking gangs. Officials claim this has contributed to a decline in boat tragedies involving migrants. Why It Matters The establishment of this unit addresses a critical gap in Pakistan's financial crime enforcement. Cryptocurrencies, due to their pseudonymous nature, have become a preferred tool for illicit transactions, including terror financing and drug trade. By embedding the investigation unit within the NC3, the FIA gains access to real-time intelligence fusion and inter-agency coordination, increasing the likelihood of disrupting criminal networks. The move also signals Pakistan's commitment to meeting international standards on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing, which is essential for maintaining access to global financial systems. What's Next The FIA is recruiting approximately 1,300 officials, with more hires planned. A new International Coordination director post has been created to strengthen cross-border collaboration. The agency is also adopting welfare rules similar to those of the Punjab police for its employees. New case management systems (CMS) enable real-time monitoring of investigations nationwide. The NC3's 24/7 helpline, complaint management unit, and overseas complaints cell aim to improve public service delivery for citizens and overseas Pakistanis.