The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Lahore has expanded its investigation into social media influencers accused of promoting gambling applications. After summoning Rajab Butt, the agency has now issued notices to YouTuber Iqra Kanwal.
The inquiry began on August 28. Since then, two separate notices have been sent to Iqra Kanwal. She faces allegations of promoting gambling apps on social media platforms, just like other content creators including Saad-ur-Rehman, widely known as Ducky Bhai, who along with his wife is already under investigation.
The NCCIA has already taken action against other YouTubers. Rehman and Mudasir Hasan were arrested earlier on charges of encouraging people to make illegal investments through these apps.
According to official orders, Iqra Kanwal, Rajab Butt, and Muhammad Anas have been directed to appear before the agency’s Lahore office on September 9. Authorities have also issued a warning that failure to appear will be considered as a lack of defense on her part.
Iqra Kanwal, however, has responded through her lawyer Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq. In a written reply, she explained that she is pregnant and expecting her first child. Due to her medical condition, doctors have advised at least two months of rest, making her unable to attend the hearings at this stage.
She assured investigators that after recovery she will extend full cooperation and provide all relevant records. Her lawyer requested that the agency grant her at least two months’ time before appearing in person.
Barrister Ashfaq confirmed that the written reply was prepared on September 2 and later submitted in line with their legal strategy.
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