ISLAMABAD – Senior Federal Investigation Agency officer and Additional Director of NCCIA, Sarfraz Ch, has been suspended while leading a high-profile crackdown on online gambling promoted by social media stars.
Sarfraz Ch had been spearheading investigations into YouTuber Ducky Bhai, who was recently arrested for promoting gambling platforms. Chaudhry had traced millions of rupees linked to Ducky Bhai and issued strict notices to other prominent social media figures, including Nadeem Nani Wala, Rajab Butt, and Iqra Kanwal.
TV host and senior journalist Mansoor Ali Khan revealed that Sarfraz Ch was preparing the next wave of notices targeting stars like Jannat Mirza and Mathira. However, his suspension has paused the crackdown, raising concerns about delays in the ongoing investigation.
Reports suggest multiple factors behind the suspension. Some sources point to pressure from influential TikTokers involved in gambling promotion. Others indicate political and institutional influences. For weeks, tensions had escalated between Lahore journalists and Punjab police, with some reporters holding press conferences against police officers.
Sarfraz Ch also faced scrutiny over accepting complaints from journalists against Lahore police. Critics questioned his decisions, but he defended them, saying complaints should not be ignored, regardless of the individuals involved.
Following his suspension, Chaudhry handed over charge of his Lahore office and has been instructed to report to Islamabad. Authorities are concerned that the probe into online gambling may now slow, even though substantial evidence links several social media stars to illegal gambling activities.
The case has exposed growing tensions between law enforcement, the media, and social media personalities promoting gambling. Activists and officials have emphasized the importance of continuing investigations to hold all responsible parties accountable, despite the suspension of Sarfraz Ch.
In other news read more about Ducky Bhai Seeks Bail in Gambling Case; Lahore Court Issues Notice to NCCIA
