The National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has registered cases against three popular YouTubers, including Rajab Butt, Anas Ali, and Hurairah. Officials said the influencers are accused of promoting gambling applications and misleading their followers with false promises of high returns.
The cases were filed in Lahore under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), fraud, and other sections of law. Authorities allege the YouTubers acted as brand ambassadors for betting platforms, encouraging thousands of people to invest money in the schemes. Many citizens reportedly lost crores of rupees through these apps.
According to NCCIA officials, notices had been issued before the legal action. However, Rajab Butt and the others continued advertising gambling platforms despite repeated warnings. Their promotions, shared across social media, convinced many young followers to trust the fraudulent applications.
On September 6, the NCCIA issued notices to Rajab Butt, Iqra Kanwal, and Muhammad Anas Ali, asking them to appear before investigators on September 9. The agency said written notices were sent to ensure compliance.
Rajab Butt, one of Pakistan’s most-followed YouTubers, is now at the center of the investigation. Authorities accused him of using his influence to promote betting apps, mislead the youth, and lure people into risky investments. Officials also said his campaigns were designed to take advantage of public trust in his online popularity.
The NCCIA further warned that failure to appear for questioning would be treated as a presumption that the accused have no defense. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have vowed to take strict action against influencers found guilty of promoting gambling and defrauding the public.
The case has raised serious concerns about the growing misuse of digital platforms in Pakistan. Officials said more action could follow as the inquiry expands.
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