LAHORE – In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves across Pakistan’s digital community, popular YouTuber Saad-ur-Rehman, widely known as Ducky Bhai, was arrested by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) at the Allama Iqbal International Airport on Saturday.
Authorities confirmed that Ducky Bhai was attempting to leave the country when his name appeared on the Provisional National Identification List (PNIL), leading to his immediate detention. His mobile phone was confiscated, with investigators alleging that it contained crucial evidence linking him to the promotion of illegal online gambling platforms. These included well-known but unregistered applications such as Binomo, 1xBet, Bet365, and B9 Game, all of which have been accused of deceiving investors and siphoning off millions of rupees from unsuspecting users.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
The arrest comes after an inquiry launched on June 13, based on intelligence reports suggesting that the YouTuber had been actively engaged in encouraging people to invest in these dubious platforms. Following his arrest, an FIR was registered under multiple sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA 2016), including charges of electronic fraud, forgery, spamming, and spoofing (Sections 13, 14, 25, 26).
Additionally, provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) were invoked—specifically Section 294-B, which deals with unlawful prize schemes, and Section 420, pertaining to cheating and dishonest inducement. The court has since granted the NCCIA a two-day physical remand, ordering that the agency present its findings when Ducky Bhai returns on August 19.
Influencer Accountability Under Scrutiny
According to investigators, the YouTuber allegedly acted as a country manager for Binomo, pocketing hefty commissions from referral links without any clearance from Pakistan’s regulatory authorities such as the FBR and the State Bank of Pakistan. Officials claim these actions not only violated national financial regulations but also encouraged thousands of followers to invest in fraudulent schemes.
The case highlights a growing debate in Pakistan over social media influencers’ responsibilities and the dangers of unregulated digital endorsements. Analysts argue that this arrest could serve as a watershed moment, setting a precedent for how influencers are held accountable for the products and platforms they promote.
A History of Controversy
This is not the first time Ducky Bhai has landed in legal trouble. Earlier this year, he faced criticism and legal notices for performing reckless motorway stunts, including driving at speeds exceeding 200 km/h while controlling the vehicle with his foot. He and his wife also came under fire for brandishing firearms in a viral video, raising questions about their influence on impressionable viewers.
The Bigger Picture
The arrest of one of Pakistan’s most recognizable YouTube personalities underscores the growing tension between digital freedom and regulatory enforcement. With social media platforms becoming powerful tools for both information and misinformation, experts warn that unchecked endorsements of high-risk financial schemes can devastate ordinary citizens.
As the investigation continues, all eyes remain on the courts and the NCCIA to see how this high-profile case unfolds, and whether it signals a tougher clampdown on influencer misconduct in Pakistan.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.