Pakistan launches specialized federal unit to combat cryptocurrency crimes
Pakistan has established a new investigative division focused on cryptocurrency-related offenses, as the nation's PVARA continues its role in digital asset oversight and regulation.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan has launched a specialized investigative division dedicated to examining cybercrime cases and financial fraud connected to cryptocurrency activities.
According to an initial report published by Dawn news on Tuesday, this newly formed crypto investigation division will focus on examining the utilization of digital assets in criminal activities, whereas Pakistan's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) will maintain its ongoing responsibility for overseeing digital asset regulation. Muhammad Athar Waheed, who serves as Director of the FIA Counter-Terrorism Wing, has reportedly suggested that additional agencies throughout the country should establish comparable units to effectively tackle crypto-related criminal activity.
PVARA chairman Bilal Bin Saqib stated in December 2025 that Pakistan held the position of the world's third-largest crypto market when measured by retail activity. During that same event, Changpeng Zhao, the former CEO of Binance, commented that considering Pakistan's approach to crypto regulation and its rate of adoption, the nation had the potential to emerge as a global leader in the industry by 2030.
The launch of this crypto crime-focused investigative unit within Pakistan's governmental framework represents the most recent advancement following PVARA's establishment in July 2025. The regulatory authority has previously granted licenses to prominent exchanges, including Binance and HTX.
Cointelegraph contacted the FIA to request commentary regarding the crypto unit but had not received an immediate response.