NCCIA probe into Rizwan, Imam continues as forensic examination awaits

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is continuing its inquiry involving Pakistan cricketers Mohammad Rizwan

LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is continuing its inquiry involving Pakistan cricketers Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq, with sources saying the investigation has been delayed due to Rizwan’s reported non-cooperation.

According to source, citing NCCIA sources, investigators have contacted Rizwan several times and requested his cooperation in the ongoing inquiry. The investigation follows the seizure of mobile phones belonging to Rizwan and Imam after Pakistan’s Test series against England.

The inquiry is reportedly focused on suspected online betting and gambling-related activity involving Pakistan cricket, as well as reports concerning the alleged leakage of information from the Pakistan dressing room during the Test series.

Rizwan and Imam appeared before the NCCIA in Lahore earlier this month. However, the agency has not announced any final finding or established any violation against either player.

According to sources, investigators have made several attempts to contact Rizwan. On some occasions, they were reportedly unable to reach him, while at other times the cricketer said he would consult his lawyer before responding.

The NCCIA is expected to contact Rizwan again on Monday to seek his cooperation. Sources said that if he does not respond, the agency could issue a formal notice and take further action under the law.

A major part of the investigation involves the forensic examination of Rizwan’s mobile phone. According to the sources, the examination is expected to take place in the cricketer’s presence, making his availability important to the process.

The agency has also considered conducting the forensic examination through alternative means. However, investigators reportedly believe that this could create a risk of data loss, which they said would not be in the interest of either the agency or the player.

Sources further said that investigators had previously questioned Rizwan regarding several contacts and that some of his responses required further clarification. They said forensic analysis of his phone was necessary to address outstanding questions and determine the facts.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the matter involving Rizwan and Imam.

Meanwhile, Imam has reportedly cooperated with investigators after initially showing some hesitation. The forensic examination of his mobile phone is now underway, according to sources.

The NCCIA has stressed that the investigation is still at an early stage and that no wrongdoing has so far been established against either cricketer. Officials said further conclusions would depend on the forensic examination and other evidence collected during the inquiry.

According to the agency, the investigation began after certain material was identified as suspicious during cyber patrolling. Sources said all proceedings were being conducted in accordance with the law.

The NCCIA also said its inquiry did not conflict with the International Cricket Council’s Code of Conduct. Sources added that neither the ICC nor the NCCIA had contacted each other regarding the investigation.

The agency has reportedly offered to send its investigators to Rizwan if he is unable to appear at its office.

Meanwhile, sources close to Rizwan said the cricketer has not received any fresh notice from the NCCIA. They said his initial notice was received through WhatsApp and that he has yet to receive answers to questions he submitted to the agency regarding the allegations and purpose of the inquiry.

The sources said Rizwan remains willing to appear before the NCCIA once he receives a formal notice in accordance with the law.