Lahore Court Grants Bail to Former NCCIA Official

In Pakistan, the Lahore High Court granted bail to former National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) additional director Sarfraz Chaudhry and two other suspects in a bribery and abuse of authority case linked to the investigation of YouTuber Ducky Bhai over the promotion of 1xBet, Bet365, B9 Game, and the binary options platform Binomo.

Court Decision

Bail Granted

The court approved the bail petition and ordered the release of Sarfraz Chaudhry, provided he is not required in any other case.

The bail amount was set at approximately $360 for each of the accused.

Arguments from Both Sides

The defense stated that the investigation had been completed and that other suspects had already been granted bail earlier.

The prosecution opposed the request but failed to present sufficient grounds to justify continued detention without a conviction.

Other Individuals Involved

Additional Accused

Former deputy directors Zawar Ahmad and Muhammad Usman had previously secured bail from lower courts.

Case Details

According to the defense, recoveries related to the case had already been carried out.

Nature of the Case

Gambling Promotion Investigation

The case is linked to an investigation involving Ducky Bhai, who was accused of promoting gambling apps on social media.

Complaint Filed

The case was initiated by the anti-corruption wing of the FIA following a complaint filed by the YouTuber’s wife, Aroob Jatoi, who is also listed as an accused in the case.

The complaint includes allegations of misuse of authority and extortion.

Proceedings Status

Court Assessment

The court did not find direct evidence that Sarfraz Chaudhry received money from the complainant.

Current Status

The legal proceedings in the case are ongoing.