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Mohammad Rizwan Seeks Clarity from NCCIA Amid Investigation

Mohammad Rizwan has reached out to the NCCIA for clarification on the inconsistencies in his investigation related to betting and gambling. His legal team claims that the inquiry has damaged his reputation without providing specific charges. Rizwan is also seeking the return of his confiscated mobile phone, questioning the due process followed during its seizure. This ongoing saga began after Pakistan's defeat in the second Test against England, leading to investigations involving both Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq. As the situation unfolds, Rizwan continues to seek legal counsel while the inquiry progresses.
 

Rizwan Requests Explanation from NCCIA

Mohammad Rizwan has reached out to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) for further clarification regarding the ongoing investigation against him, highlighting discrepancies in the agency's rationale for the inquiry, as reported by Cricinfo.


In a formal reply to the NCCIA's recent correspondence, Rizwan confirmed his attendance before the agency on October 2, as directed. However, he noted that the latest communication seemed to alter the original reason for the inquiry. The initial notice indicated that the investigation was related to betting and gambling within Pakistan cricket. In contrast, the NCCIA's recent letter did not mention betting, instead stating that he was being investigated under the "relevant provisions of PECA 2016." PECA refers to the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, but the agency did not clarify which specific provision Rizwan is alleged to have breached.


Legal Team Claims Damage to Reputation

Rizwan's legal representatives have asserted that the association with a potential betting and gambling investigation has harmed his reputation and integrity, denying him the chance to defend himself due to a lack of specific charges. They are seeking clarification on whether the focus of the inquiry has shifted from betting and gambling to a different alleged legal violation. Additionally, they questioned whether the NCCIA consulted with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) or the International Cricket Council (ICC) anti-corruption units during the investigation process.


Confiscation of Phone and Investigation Details

As reported by Cricinfo, Rizwan has again requested the return of his mobile phone, which was confiscated in London following Pakistan's loss in the second Test at Lord's. He raised concerns about the due process involved in the phone's seizure, stating that he had not received any inventory or custody record regarding the confiscation, despite the phone still being held.


This letter marks the latest chapter in a lengthy saga that began when the NCCIA initiated an investigation into Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq after Pakistan's defeat in the second Test against England. Both players were subsequently summoned back to Pakistan, with Imam opting to complete the agency's questionnaire, while Rizwan chose to seek legal advice as the inquiry progresses.