Former Sindh minister Ghulam Rasool Unnar has filed a police complaint against his ex-wife, alleging she used artificial intelligence to edit and share AI-generated intimate pictures of him online without consent. The complaint, lodged at the Saddar Police Station in Karachi, marks the latest case in Pakistan where AI technology has been weaponized in personal disputes, raising fresh questions about digital privacy and the misuse of deepfake tools.

What happened and when

- Complaint filed: Around 12 June 2026, Unnar approached the Saddar Police Station in Karachi with a written application.
- Alleged incident: Unnar claims his ex-wife edited and shared AI-generated images of him on social media platforms, including WhatsApp and Facebook, after their marriage ended.
- Legal move: He has requested the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) related to defamation, cyber harassment, and misuse of AI tools.
- Police response: The case has been forwarded to the Investigation Officer (IO) for further inquiry. No FIR has been registered yet as of 18 June 2026.

Unnar, who previously served as a minister in the Sindh government, did not specify the exact platforms where the images were shared or the nature of the edits made to the photos. However, sources close to the matter confirmed that the images were AI-manipulated and circulated in private and public digital spaces.

Why this case matters in Pakistan

This is not the first time AI-generated content has been used to harass or defame individuals in Pakistan. In recent months, several cases have emerged where deepfake technology was employed to create and spread fake intimate images of public figures and private citizens alike. The rise of accessible AI tools has made it easier for individuals to manipulate photos and videos, often with malicious intent.

Legal experts warn that Pakistan’s existing cybercrime laws may not fully address the nuances of AI misuse. While the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 criminalizes cyber harassment and defamation, the specific use of AI to create fake content falls into a legal gray area. Courts and law enforcement agencies are still grappling with how to prosecute such cases effectively.

What the law says — and the gaps

Under PECA 2016, sharing or creating obscene, indecent, or false content online with the intent to harm someone’s reputation is punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 1 million. However, the law does not explicitly mention AI-generated content or deepfakes, leaving room for legal ambiguity.

  • Section 20 of PECA covers cyber harassment, which includes sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent.
  • Section 21 addresses defamation, but proving intent and harm in AI-generated cases can be challenging.
  • Section 11 criminalizes obscenity, but the definition of "obscene" in the digital age remains unclear when AI is involved.

Legal advocates argue that Pakistan needs updated legislation to specifically criminalize the creation and distribution of AI-manipulated content that harms individuals. Without clear laws, victims like Unnar face an uphill battle in seeking justice.

What should you do if you’re a victim?

If you or someone you know has been a victim of AI-generated fake content or cyber harassment in Pakistan, here are the steps you can take:

  • Document everything: Save screenshots, links, and timestamps of the content in question. This evidence is crucial for filing a complaint.
  • File a complaint: Visit your nearest police station and request an FIR under PECA 2016. If the police hesitate, insist on registering the complaint or escalate the matter to higher authorities.
  • Report to the FIA: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has a dedicated Cyber Crime Wing that handles such cases. You can file a report online at https://www.fia.gov.pk/cybercrime/.
  • Seek legal help: Consult a lawyer specializing in cyber law or digital rights to explore further legal options.
  • Request content removal: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp have policies against non-consensual intimate imagery. You can report the content directly to the platforms for removal.

What’s next in this case?

The Saddar Police Station has assigned an Investigation Officer (IO) to probe the matter. Unnar’s legal team is expected to submit additional evidence, including the AI-edited images and records of their circulation. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how Pakistan handles AI misuse in personal disputes.

Legal experts and digital rights activists are closely watching the developments, hoping this case will push authorities to strengthen cyber laws and provide clearer guidelines for victims. Meanwhile, Unnar has urged the public to be cautious about sharing personal images online, even in private chats, as they can be manipulated and misused.

Key takeaways for Pakistanis

- AI tools are powerful but risky: While AI can be used for creativity and innovation, it can also be weaponized to create fake content that damages reputations.
- Your digital footprint matters: Once an image is shared online, it can be edited, copied, and redistributed without your consent.
- Know your rights: Pakistan’s cyber laws are evolving, but victims of AI misuse must act quickly to document evidence and seek legal recourse.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from the FIA Cyber Crime Wing and PECA-related rulings to understand your legal protections.

This case is a stark reminder that in the age of AI, digital privacy is not guaranteed. Whether you’re a public figure or a private citizen, vigilance and awareness are your best defenses against misuse of technology.

What readers are asking

- How can I tell if a picture is AI-edited? Look for inconsistencies in lighting, shadows, facial features, or background details. Tools like Hive AI, Deepware Scanner, or Microsoft Video Authenticator can help detect deepfakes, though none are 100% accurate.
- Can I sue someone for sharing AI-edited images of me? Yes, under PECA 2016, you can file a complaint for cyber harassment or defamation. Consult a lawyer to explore civil and criminal options.
- What should I do if someone threatens to share AI-edited images of me? Report the threat immediately to the police or FIA Cyber Crime Wing. Do not engage with the blackmailer.
- Are there any helplines for cyber harassment victims in Pakistan? The Digital Rights Foundation (DRF) offers support via its Cyber Harassment Helpline at 0800-37373 or through its website https://digitalrightsfoundation.pk.

Stay safe online — and remember, once it’s out there, you can’t take it back.