The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has summoned YouTuber and artist Iqra Kanwal in connection with an ongoing inquiry into the promotion of gambling applications on social media.
The inquiry, initiated on August 28, alleges that Kanwal, like fellow YouTuber Saadur Rehman (Ducky Bhai) and others, promoted gambling apps that encouraged users to invest in unregulated schemes.
Multiple arrests in gambling apps case
The NCCIA has already arrested YouTuber Rehman and Mudassar Hassan for allegedly endorsing such platforms. In the latest development, Iqra Kanwal, Rajab Butt, and Muhammad Anas have been directed to appear before investigators at the NCCIA Lahore office on September 9.
The agency has cautioned that failure to appear will be taken as having “no defence.”
Iqra Kanwal’s response through lawyer
Kanwal, however, has submitted a written response through her counsel, Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq, citing health reasons. In her reply, she stated that she is pregnant and nearing childbirth, making it medically unsafe for her to attend the summons.
The response explained that doctors have advised at least two months of recovery time. Kanwal assured authorities that once recovered, she would “fully cooperate with the investigation and provide all necessary records.”
Barrister Ashfaq confirmed the submission of her response, adding:
“Our law firm will represent Iqra Kanwal. The reply was prepared on September 2 and submitted later in line with our legal strategy.”
What’s next
The NCCIA will now review Kanwal’s legal reply and decide on the next course of action in its widening crackdown on digital promotion of illegal gambling platforms.