National cricketer Mohammad Rizwan appeared before the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
Rizwan was issued a notice under Section 160 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, seeking his cooperation in the forensic examination and analysis of a seized device.
During his appearance at the NCCIA, Rizwan left smiling without responding to questions from journalists.
According to sources, a four-member NCCIA team will question Rizwan. The investigation team comprises one deputy director and three inspectors.
Rizwan has appeared before the NCCIA previously as well. The agency has also issued notices to the cricketer regarding the forensic examination and analysis of his mobile phone.
Earlier, Mohammad Rizwan wrote to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), seeking clarification regarding the allegations against him.
In his third letter to the agency, Rizwan confirmed that he would appear before the NCCIA on October 2. He said he had received the notice and confirmed his participation in the inquiry on the scheduled date.
Rizwan also sought further details from the NCCIA regarding the questions being raised in the investigation.
The wicketkeeper said the first notice had contained allegations related to online betting and gambling, while the agency had referred to a provision concerning electronic fraud under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 during proceedings in court. However, he said the latest notice did not mention allegations of online betting or gambling and asked the agency to clarify the situation.
Rizwan said he needed clarification on several points to understand the matter. He asked whether the inquiry was still related to online betting or gambling, which specific provisions of PECA 2016 were relevant to the investigation, and whether the scope of the inquiry had changed after the first notice. If so, he requested that the current scope be communicated to him in writing.
Rizwan also asked whether the allegations of betting and gambling, which he said could affect his reputation as a cricketer, had been communicated to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the International Cricket Council (ICC) Anti-Corruption Unit or any other relevant cricketing body. He also asked whether the PCB or ICC had been contacted or any information obtained from them.
Regarding his mobile phone, Rizwan said the device was currently in the possession of the NCCIA. He said he had provided the password while in England and again during his first appearance before the agency. He added that the device had been reopened and examined in his presence.
Rizwan said he had not been provided with a receipt for the seizure of his mobile phone, a warrant, a custody record or any written document concerning the agency’s continued possession of the device.
He asked what further personal cooperation was required from him for the forensic examination. Rizwan also requested that the forensic examination be completed without further delay and that his mobile phone be returned immediately.
Rizwan said he had still not been informed of the exact allegation against him. He added that he was ready to fully cooperate and assist with any lawful inquiry.