The Lahore High Court has dismissed cricketer Mohammad Rizwan’s petition challenging the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency’s (NCCIA) inquiry into allegations linked to online betting and gambling.
Chief Justice Lahore High Court Justice Aalia Neelum issued the written judgment on Rizwan’s petition, allowing the NCCIA to continue its inquiry in accordance with the law.
NCCIA Inquiry Under PECA
According to the judgment, the NCCIA is investigating Rizwan over alleged involvement in online betting and gambling.
The government’s lawyer told the court that the matter falls under Section 14 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which relates to obtaining an unlawful financial benefit.
The court held that the relevant agency should be allowed to proceed with its inquiry at this stage.
Court Says ICC Rules Do Not Block State Action
The LHC observed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) Anti-Corruption Code does not prevent state authorities from taking action under applicable criminal or regulatory laws.
The judgment also stated that the NCCIA’s inquiry was neither outside its jurisdiction nor initiated in bad faith.
The court clarified that the issuance of a call-up notice does not, by itself, amount to an accusation that a person has committed a crime.
Rizwan Directed to Cooperate With Inquiry
The court directed Rizwan to appear before the NCCIA and cooperate with the investigation.
At the same time, the agency was instructed not to harass or unnecessarily inconvenience the cricketer and to conduct the inquiry strictly in accordance with the law.
Rizwan will retain the right to seek a legal remedy if he has objections to the final outcome of the inquiry.
He can also approach the relevant court for the return of any belongings or other items seized or taken into possession during the investigation.
