Mohammad Rizwan to Appear Before NCCIA on October 2, Seeks Details of Inquiry
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan is set to appear before the National Cyber Crime Investigation Authority (NCCIA) on Friday, October 2, while seeking written clarification about the scope and nature of the inquiry involving him.
Rizwan confirmed his appearance in a letter sent to the cybercrime authority, according to a copy obtained by Geo News. The cricketer also raised several questions about the allegations mentioned in earlier notices.
This is Rizwan’s third letter to the NCCIA regarding the matter. He said an earlier notice had referred to allegations related to online betting and gambling, while proceedings before the court had also mentioned electronic fraud under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.
However, Rizwan noted that the latest notice did not specifically mention online betting or gambling. He therefore asked the authority to clarify whether those allegations remain part of the inquiry.
The Pakistan cricketer also requested details about the specific provisions of PECA 2016 that are relevant to the investigation. He asked the NCCIA to confirm in writing whether the scope of the inquiry had changed since the issuance of the first notice.
Rizwan further raised questions about whether the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), International Cricket Council (ICC) Anti-Corruption Unit or any other cricketing authority had been informed about the inquiry.
He also asked whether the NCCIA had obtained information from or contacted the PCB or ICC in connection with the case.
Dispute Over Mobile Phone
Rizwan’s letter also addresses his mobile phone, which he says remains with the NCCIA.
According to the cricketer, the device was taken from him in England on August 31. He said he provided its password and that the phone was later unlocked and examined in his presence.
Rizwan said he had not received a formal receipt for the seizure of the phone, a warrant, a custody record or written information explaining why the device was still being held.
He asked the NCCIA to confirm whether any further cooperation was required from him for the forensic examination.
The cricketer also requested that the forensic process be completed without unnecessary delay and that his mobile phone be returned afterward.
Rizwan has maintained that he is willing to cooperate with any lawful investigation but wants clear information about the allegations and proceedings.
NCCIA Summons Rizwan
The NCCIA previously summoned Rizwan to appear on October 2 for the forensic examination and analysis of his mobile phone.
According to the second notice, he was asked to appear before the authority at 3pm and cooperate with the investigation.
The notice followed Rizwan’s earlier request for written information about the inquiry and the return of his phone.
Rizwan had also said that when he appeared before the NCCIA on September 10, officials had access to his unlocked phone and reviewed messages and other material.
According to agency sources, the NCCIA has contacted Rizwan on several occasions regarding the inquiry. Sources close to the cricketer, meanwhile, have said that he has been seeking further clarification and consulting his legal team.
The inquiry remains ongoing, and Rizwan is scheduled to appear before the NCCIA on October 2.
