The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has summoned well-known YouTuber Rajab Butt to appear before investigators on September 9. He has been called in connection with an inquiry into his alleged involvement in the promotion of online gambling applications.
Rajab Butt is one of the most popular content creators in Pakistan. He has millions of followers across digital platforms. Over the years, he has often remained in the headlines, including for keeping a lion cub briefly in his custody. His latest controversy, however, relates to serious financial allegations.
According to the official notice, Rajab Butt is accused of promoting online trading and gambling apps. Investigators claim he motivated young people to invest in such schemes. The NCCIA alleged that these platforms were not registered or licensed, and that Butt’s promotion of them contributed to scams designed to deprive people of their hard-earned money.
The YouTuber has been directed to appear in person before Assistant Director Shoaib Riaz at the NCCIA Lahore office at 11am on Tuesday. Officials said his presence is necessary to record his version of events. The notice further warned that if he fails to attend, it will be considered as having nothing to present in his defence.
Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq, who is representing Butt, confirmed that the case is under review. He said a written response will be submitted on Tuesday and stressed that Butt’s defence will be carried out strictly under the law.
This development follows the arrest of another famous digital creator, Saadur Rehman, also known as Ducky Bhai. He was taken into custody last month at Lahore airport after facing similar charges of promoting betting and gambling applications.
The NCCIA had registered the case on August 17 in Lahore under several sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016. The charges include electronic forgery, fraud, spamming, and spoofing. Additional provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code were also applied, including cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property.
Authorities said the case is part of a broader crackdown on online scams. The NCCIA has warned that misleading investment apps are being used to trap unsuspecting citizens.
We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to opinion@minutemirror.com.pk and minutemirrormail@gmail.com