ISLAMABAD – National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Lahore Zone detained Fahim Akram, who was wanted by US authorities over the alleged online sale of millions of fake American postage stamps.
The case gets attention due to the scale of suspected online fraud and the methods allegedly used to exploit digital platforms and financial accounts. NCCIA Lahore Zone Additional Director Atif Ameer said the suspect had been arrested in connection with the case while US announced $100,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.
Investigators allege that Fahim Akram operated LabelsBank dot com for 3 years, selling more than five million counterfeit US postage stamps online. Each stamp was reportedly sold for $2, while the alleged operation was valued at approximately Rs35 billion in Pakistani currency, according to the investigation.
Authorities also found that 16 bank accounts were allegedly used to facilitate the operation. These included accounts belonging to the suspect, his brother, wife, sister and maternal aunt. An FIR was registered in the case under number 246/2026.
To track down the suspect and investigate the alleged fraud, the NCCIA formed eight special teams across Punjab, Islamabad and Sindh. The teams conducted raids at 35 locations and questioned 47 individuals as part of the investigation.
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According to the agency, investigators used advanced technology, including AI, to analyse 122 call data records, 50 IMEI tracking reports and audio and video recordings from 120 cameras. A 10-day locator operation was also carried out to trace the suspect.
For a deeper probe into the alleged network, Additional Director Atif Ameer constituted a joint investigation team comprising Deputy Directors Waqas Saeed and Hassan, SHO Najam Bajwa, and Sub-Inspectors Nabeel and Tanveer. The team will now examine the alleged counterfeit stamp sales, financial transactions and the possible involvement of other individuals connected to the operation.
