Long Overdue Step

April 04, 2026

Newspaper, Opinions, Editorials

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The National Forensic Agency has formally commenced operations, marking a significant development in Pakistan’s criminal justice infrastructure. Established under the 2024 legislation, the agency has completed its first phase, processing 1,500 digital forensic cases in a single year. Its capabilities span an impressive array: digital forensics, including deepfake detection, computer and mobile analysis, audio-video and network examination, drone forensics, alongside specialised laboratories for narcotics, financial technology, questionable documents, DNA, firearms, serology, and explosives. Plans are underway to establish regional offices in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, with a second phase envisioning 25 specialised laboratories.

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Pakistan’s criminal justice system has long operated without the scientific backbone that modern policing requires. The reliance on archaic investigation methods and questionable confessions has contributed to abysmal conviction rates and a culture of impunity.

For the public, this translates to a greater likelihood that crimes will be solved and perpetrators brought to justice. Scientific evidence is considerably more difficult to dispute than witness testimony, particularly in a system where witness intimidation is commonplace. For the state, enhanced forensic capabilities mean stronger cases in court, higher conviction rates, and a more credible deterrent against criminal activity. The deepfake forensics capability is particularly pertinent in an era where digital manipulation can destroy reputations and influence public discourse with alarming ease.

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The NFA’s success will ultimately depend on its integration with law enforcement agencies and the judicial system’s willingness to embrace scientific evidence. The infrastructure is being built; the challenge now is ensuring it is utilised effectively. After years of discussing forensic reforms, Pakistan has finally moved beyond rhetoric to implementation.

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