 2016.){kind=link}
The Rawalpindi Traffic Police have filed an FIR against a businessman under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. He allegedly posted a misleading video about the removal of illegally parked cars, raising concerns about the misuse of cybercrime laws.
The FIR was registered at Cantonment Police Station on the complaint of a Rawalpindi Traffic Police warden, Imran Sikandar. According to Sikandar, he and his team found a TikTok video from the account of Rizwan Singer. The video showed a wrongly parked car being lifted outside Hussain Autos on Kashmir Road, where a proper challan had already been issued.
However, the FIR claimed the video was misleading and falsely suggested police misconduct. Authorities accused the owner of Hussain Autos of creating and sharing the video to incite public anger against the police. They stated that such actions are punishable under PECA 2016, and an investigation is now underway.
Read more: President Zardari Signs Controversial PECA Amendment Bill Amid Backlash
The government amended PECA 2016 in January, despite protests from journalist organisations. The law has faced criticism for its potential misuse against citizens, journalists and activists.
Recently, authorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa registered a case under the cybercrime law against a citizen who questioned the credibility of the official moon sighting committee. Previously, only the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had the authority to register cases under PECA 2016.
The use of PECA in such cases has sparked debate about the balance between enforcing laws and protecting free speech. Critics argue that the law, like how Rawalpindi Traffic Police handled it, suppresses dissent, while officials claim it ensures responsible online behaviour. The investigation in Rawalpindi continues, with authorities monitoring the case closely.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.