Podcaster Rehan Tariq has reportedly been arrested by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) after arriving at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, with the case said to be linked to one of his recent podcast episodes.
According to reports, Tariq was stopped by officials of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) upon his arrival at the airport and remained in custody for several hours before being informed that he was wanted in connection with an ongoing NCCIA investigation.
He was subsequently handed over to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency for further legal proceedings.
Officials familiar with the matter said the investigation relates to Tariq’s recent podcast featuring religious scholar Jawad Naqvi.
The episode was recorded before Tariq travelled to the United Kingdom on a private visit.
Authorities are reportedly reviewing the content of the podcast as part of the investigation. However, officials have not disclosed the specific allegations against Tariq or the legal provisions under which the case has been registered.
Earlier, the controversial program featuring religious scholar Allama Jawad Naqvi by YouTuber Rehan Tariq sparked a storm on social media. This is not the first time something like this has happened with Rehan Tariq, he has previously produced several controversial programs as well.
His show with Allama Jawad Naqvi went viral on social media platforms, and the anchor Rehan Tariq has come under criticism.
Rehan Tariq’s latest controversial program not only ignited widespread debate on social media but also hurt the sentiments of many Pakistanis.
Sources further claimed that, in pursuit of views, the YouTuber played with public emotions by hurting the sentiments of a religious community and later made an apology in what was described as an unsuccessful attempt to absolve himself of responsibility.
According to sources, YouTuber Rehan Tariq has adopted a new strategy to gain viewership and earn dollars: produce controversial programs, make money, and then apologise once criticism emerges.
Sources also alleged that Rehan Tariq attempted to undermine the sanctity of Muharram-ul-Haram. By engaging in a controversial discussion with Allama Jawad Naqvi during his program, he allegedly incited public discord.
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