By Muhammad Shahzad Lahore Pakistan

LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Punjab has arrested a 17-year-old student from Bahawalpur for allegedly attempting to poison his father after reportedly seeking guidance from an artificial intelligence (AI) system on administering a potentially fatal substance.

According to preliminary information, the suspect, a second-year student and the only son of his parents, allegedly had strained relations with his father and planned to harm him following a disagreement.

During the investigation, authorities reportedly found that the teenager had developed an interest in chemistry after watching the American crime drama series Breaking Bad. He had also allegedly established a small laboratory at home to conduct chemical experiments.

The suspect allegedly obtained chemical materials from Australia and Islamabad and prepared a substance at home with the intention of poisoning his father.

According to the preliminary investigation, the suspect administered the substance to his father on one occasion, but the attempt did not produce the intended effect.

He subsequently allegedly sought further guidance from an AI system regarding the administration of a poison that could cause his father’s death without detection.

The NCCIA Punjab reportedly received information about the suspect through an automated system. Following the information, Director NCCIA Punjab Hissam Bin Iqbal directed the formation of a team to investigate the matter.

The team conducted an operation in Bahawalpur and arrested the suspect.

Further investigation was underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, the nature of the chemicals allegedly involved and the suspect’s online activities.

The case has also raised concerns about minors’ online activities, exposure to crime-related content and the potential misuse of emerging technologies.

Authorities stressed the importance of responsible technology use and greater awareness of children’s online safety.