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A Lahore court granted interim bail today to social media personalities Rajab Butt and Nadeem Naniwala. The two influencers face an investigation regarding the alleged promotion of betting applications. Additional Sessions Judge Mansoor Ahmed Qureshi approved their bail until January 6, 2025.
During the hearing, the court issued formal notices to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The judge directed the agency to submit the complete case record along with a response. Furthermore, the court warned the petitioners to follow all legal procedures within the given timeframe or face legal consequences.
Sources confirmed that the NCCIA in Lahore has registered multiple cases against both content creators. However, officials have not yet disclosed the exact nature of all allegations.
Previously, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) granted the YouTubers a 10-day protective bail. The IHC directed them to approach the relevant court in Lahore within that period. Complying with the order, Butt and Naniwala appeared before the Sessions Court on Monday to secure this interim relief.
This legal relief comes shortly after Rajab Butt faced deportation from the United Kingdom. British authorities cancelled his visa and put him on a morning flight back to Pakistan.
Officials stated that Butt failed to disclose the criminal cases registered against him in Pakistan during his visa application. Upon discovery, authorities revoked his visa and ordered his immediate removal. Rajab Butt has stated he plans to challenge this decision and pursue an appeal in London.
