ISLAMABAD – The federal government allowed the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency to intercept and trace calls and messages in cases related to national security, the sources privy to the development said on Tuesdsy.
The decision, made during a recent federal cabinet meeting, involves implementing Section 54 of the Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act 1996. This section permits designated ISI officers, no less than grade 18, to conduct such activities.
The federal government also issued a notification in this regard.
It said, “The federal government, in its efforts to safeguard national security and prevent offenses, has authorized ISI officers nominated periodically to intercept calls and trace messages through communication systems,”.
Under the Telecommunications Act, the government can authorize individuals to intercept or trace communications for national security reasons, prioritizing national defense and security against foreign threats.
