Mohammad Rizwan Summoned by Cyber Crime Agency Amid Ongoing Investigation

Rizwan Ordered to Appear Before Cyber Crime Agency

In New Delhi, Pakistan's wicketkeeper-batter, Mohammad Rizwan, has been instructed to attend a session with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on October 2 as part of an ongoing investigation. The agency has requested Rizwan's cooperation, particularly concerning his mobile device that was confiscated in London last month, according to reports from a sports news outlet.

The inquiry into Rizwan revolves around a potential breach of the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (2016), although the exact nature of any charges against him remains unspecified. In a legal communication sent on Tuesday, Rizwan sought clarification from the authorities regarding the allegations and any charges he might be facing.

Rizwan plans to comply with the NCCIA's request but intends to reach out to the agency beforehand to gain a better understanding of the accusations and to request the disclosure of any charges.

This correspondence follows Rizwan's previous communication with the NCCIA, which occurred nearly two weeks after the Lahore High Court dismissed his petition questioning the agency's jurisdiction in this matter.

The Lahore High Court's ruling mandated Rizwan to assist with the agency's investigation while ensuring that the NCCIA does not subject him to harassment or undue inconvenience. The court also permitted Rizwan to seek the return of his belongings, particularly his mobile phone, which has not yet been returned.

In his letter, Rizwan contended that the NCCIA had not fully adhered to the court's directives and reiterated his request for the return of his mobile phone, which he was promised would be returned three hours after its seizure on August 31.

He also pointed out that the agency had not reached out to him in a manner that reflected compliance with the court's orders and requested that all future communications be conducted through legal channels.

This latest correspondence from the NCCIA marks a significant development in the investigation involving Rizwan and fellow player Imam-ul-Haq, which arose following Pakistan's loss in the second Test against England. After this defeat, both players were promptly recalled to Pakistan. While Imam has chosen to complete the agency's questionnaire, Rizwan has opted to seek legal representation as the investigation unfolds.