Pakistani YouTubers Summoned Over iGaming Promotion Case
The National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) summoned two YouTubers on September 9: Rajab Butt (7.76M subscribers) and Iqra Kanwal from the channel Sistrology (5.64M subscribers).
Both influencers are accused of promoting iGaming operators on social media and allegedly taking part in an “organized scheme to mislead citizens into investing in unregistered platforms.”
Case Against Iqra Kanwal
Iqra Kanwal, a well-known Pakistani entertainer and blogger, was officially notified on August 28. Since then, NCCIA has issued her two separate summons. Alongside her, Rajab Butt and Muhammad Anas are also listed in the investigation.
Through her lawyer, Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq, Kanwal submitted a written response, stating that she is in the late stages of pregnancy and preparing for childbirth. Doctors advised her to take at least two months for recovery.
In her statement, she emphasized that after her recovery period she is ready to fully cooperate with investigators and provide all required materials. Her legal team requested a minimum two-month delay for questioning.
Defense Position
- Written response submitted to NCCIA;
- Reason for absence – pregnancy and medical advice;
- Commitment to cooperate after recovery;
- Official confirmation by her attorney.
Case Against Rajab Butt
Rajab Butt was ordered to appear at the NCCIA office in Lahore on September 9 at 11:00 AM. Failure to appear would be treated as a lack of defense. Unlike Kanwal, he has not provided any written explanation.
Other Figures in the Investigation
In similar cases, NCCIA has previously arrested YouTubers Saadur Rehman (Ducky Bhai) and Mudassar Hassan, both accused of promoting gambling apps.
In particular, the case against Ducky Bhai over advertising 1xBet and Binomo has already been concluded, and he now faces up to seven years in prison.
Main Allegations Against Influencers
| Individual | Status | Allegations |
|---|---|---|
| Iqra Kanwal | Submitted written response, requested delay | Promotion of gambling apps, user involvement |
| Rajab Butt | Summoned on September 9 | Suspected of involvement in iGaming promotion scheme |
| Ducky Bhai | In custody | Promotion of 1xBet and Binomo |
| Mudassar Hassan | Previously arrested | Promotion of unlicensed apps |
Conclusion
The cases against these popular creators highlight NCCIA’s growing scrutiny of online activities. Promoting investments through unlicensed platforms is being treated as a threat to citizens’ financial security.
Kanwal, Butt, and other figures remain under close watch, and the outcomes of these proceedings may set new precedents for influencer accountability in Pakistan.