The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has filed separate cases against three well-known influencers. The accused are Rajab Butt, Anas Ali, and Hurairah. Authorities say they promoted online betting platforms and deceived their audiences.
The FIRs were registered in Lahore. Charges include provisions of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), as well as fraud and other relevant laws. Officials claim the influencers acted as brand ambassadors for gambling platforms. They allegedly urged people to invest money by promising big financial returns.
Warnings Issued Before Cases
According to the NCCIA, formal warnings were issued before any legal action was taken. Despite this, the influencers continued promoting gambling apps. Authorities stated that the promotions enticed thousands of followers to deposit money. Many victims later reported losing their savings. Losses are estimated in crores of rupees.
The cases highlight the growing concern over gambling app ads on social media. Officials said misleading promotions target young audiences who trust online influencers. The NCCIA stated that such promotions are part of a coordinated scheme to exploit the public.
Summons Issued to Influencers
On September 6, the NCCIA issued a summons to several YouTubers and influencers. Rajab Butt, Iqra Kanwal, and Anas Ali were among those called. Written notices were also sent, requiring them to appear for questioning.
The official notice said failure to attend would mean the influencers had no defense to offer. Investigators are treating the matter as a serious offense involving public trust and financial harm.
Rajab Butt Seen as Central Figure
Rajab Butt is reportedly the main figure in the investigation. Reports indicate that he has been living in Dubai and frequently travels to the UK. He is accused of targeting young audiences with gambling app ads. Officials say he promoted trading and betting apps across his social media channels.
NCCIA alleges he played a leading role in misleading the public. His campaigns reportedly encouraged users to invest money with false promises of high profits. Authorities believe the promotions were not random but carefully planned.
Impact of Gambling Promotions
Investigators claim the ads reached thousands of users across platforms. Many victims invested their savings, hoping for an easy income. Instead, they faced heavy financial losses. Some families reported losing large amounts, adding to the seriousness of the case.
Authorities stress that gambling app ads are not just misleading but also illegal. Promoting them can lead to large-scale financial scams. Officials said stricter monitoring of influencer campaigns is now under review.
Investigation Still Ongoing
The NCCIA stated that the investigation is still ongoing. More influencers may be called in for questioning. Written notices remain in effect for those who have not yet appeared in court.
Officials confirmed that if Rajab Butt fails to respond, further action will follow. His continued absence may strengthen the case against him.
An NCCIA spokesperson said the crackdown is aimed at protecting the public. The agency wants to prevent social media platforms from becoming tools for fraud.
The FIRs against Rajab Butt, Anas Ali, and Hurairah show rising concerns over online betting promotions. The cases underline the risks linked with gambling app ads. Authorities are determined to hold those responsible accountable.
