Pakistan Launches Crypto Investigation Unit to Combat Digital Asset Crimes
Pakistan has established a dedicated cryptocurrency investigation unit under the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to strengthen efforts against digital asset crimes. The new unit will operate within the FIA’s National Command and Control Centre and focus on investigating the misuse of cryptocurrencies in illegal activities.
The move reflects the government’s broader strategy to improve oversight of the country’s growing digital asset sector while ensuring compliance with financial security laws.
Unit to Investigate Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing
According to local media reports, Muhammad Athar Waheed, Director of the FIA’s Counter-Terrorism Wing, said the specialized team will investigate cases involving money laundering, terrorism financing, and other crypto-related financial crimes.
Waheed also encouraged other major government agencies, including the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency and the Anti-Narcotics Force, to create similar units. These dedicated teams would help tackle the growing use of cryptocurrencies in cybercrime, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities.
FIA to Work Alongside PVARA
The newly formed investigation unit will work closely with the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA). While the FIA focuses on criminal investigations, PVARA remains responsible for regulating the country’s digital asset industry.
PVARA oversees the licensing of cryptocurrency exchanges, custodians, token issuers, and other virtual asset service providers operating in Pakistan.
Pakistan Continues to Expand Crypto Regulations
Pakistan has accelerated its digital asset strategy over the past year. In March 2026, Parliament approved the Virtual Assets Act, officially establishing PVARA as the country’s permanent federal regulator for virtual assets.
Following the legislation, PVARA granted operating licenses to several major cryptocurrency exchanges, including Binance and HTX. The regulatory framework aims to support innovation while maintaining strong compliance standards across the sector.
Government Pushes Broader Digital Asset Strategy
Pakistan’s digital asset ambitions extend beyond regulation. PVARA Chairman Bilal bin Saqib has previously announced plans to introduce a sovereign stablecoin to support the country’s digital economy.
The government has also revealed plans to establish a state-backed Bitcoin reserve and allocate 2,000 megawatts of electricity for Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence data centers. These initiatives demonstrate Pakistan’s long-term commitment to expanding its digital asset ecosystem while strengthening regulatory oversight.
