The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) will hold YouTuber Saadur Rehman, known as Ducky Bhai, in custody for two additional days. A Lahore court magistrate extended his detention until September 3, as investigations into illegal gambling app promotions continue.
Legal Charges and Detention
Ducky Bhai faces several charges under Pakistani law, including violations of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016, and the Pakistan Penal Code. The charges include:
- Section 13 – Electronic Forgery
- Section 14 – Electronic Fraud
- Section 25 – Spamming
- Section 26 – Spoofing
- Section 294 B – Offering prize linked to trade
- Section 420 – Cheating and dishonestly inducing property delivery
He was arrested at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport, suspected of promoting these apps on his YouTube channel.
Investigation and Allegations
The investigation commenced on June 13, based on credible sources. It uncovered that social media influencers were promoting gambling apps for profit.
The First Information Report (FIR) outlines public financial losses attributed to these apps, specifically accusing Ducky Bhai of endorsing them on his platform.
Apps Under Scrutiny
The following apps are allegedly involved:
- 1xBet
- Bet 365
- B9 Game
- Binomo
Authorities suspect he might have acted as a country manager for one or more of these apps.
Forensic Evidence and Court Proceedings
Ducky Bhai’s initial four-day remand concluded before Monday’s hearing in Magistrate Muhammad Naeem Wattoo’s court. Forensic evidence prompted a request for remand extension.
Prosecutors presented data from confiscated electronic devices showing discussions on gambling apps. International transaction evidence supported the request.
Defense and Court Ruling
Advocate Chaudhry Usman Ali, defending Ducky Bhai, opposed the remand extension, arguing that transaction data could be gathered without detaining him.
The defense claimed no definitive evidence linked Ducky Bhai to user losses on Binomo or other apps. Nevertheless, the judge approved a two-day custody extension, urging NCCIA to complete the investigation while authorities analyze digital evidence and financial transactions.
