A Lahore court on Wednesday formally charged YouTuber Ducky Bhai and his co-accused in a gambling app promotion case. During proceedings before Judicial Magistrate Naeem, Ducky Bhai and the other accused appeared in court and pleaded not guilty, denying all allegations.
The court framed charges against them and summoned prosecution witnesses for February 23, when the trial will continue with the recording of evidence and witness statements.
Case Filed by NCCIA
The National Counter Crime Investigation Authority (NCCIA) lodged the case, registering the First Information Report (FIR) on August 17, 2025. The allegations involve the promotion of illegal gambling apps, including 1xBet, Bet365, B9 Game, and Binomo, which allegedly defrauded users of millions of rupees.
Charges Under PECA and Pakistan Penal Code
The accused face charges under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 for electronic fraud, forgery, and spamming, along with charges of cheating under the Pakistan Penal Code.
Ducky Bhai was arrested in August 2025 at Lahore Airport and spent several months in custody before being granted post-arrest bail in November 2025.
YouTube Channel Declared “Case Property”
The magistrate previously observed that Ducky Bhai’s YouTube channel is considered “case property”, warning that uploading new content from the channel while the matter is sub-judice would be illegal.
This ruling sets a legal precedent in Pakistan, signaling that influencers’ digital assets may be seized if their platforms are used to promote illegal activities.
Trial to Resume
The court will resume proceedings on February 23, with prosecution witnesses expected to provide statements. The case highlights growing scrutiny of digital platforms and influencer accountability in Pakistan.
