Mohammad Rizwan Demands Phone Return From NCCIA, Questions Investigation Basis

Pakistan's star batter Mohammad Rizwan has taken a formal step regarding his mobile phone, which has been in the possession of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) for approximately four weeks. Rizwan has written a formal letter to the agency, demanding the immediate return of his device. In his communication, the cricketer has also sought clarity on the specific nature of the investigation being conducted against him and requested information regarding any future summons for questioning.

The Incident in England

The seizure of the mobile phone took place on August 31 in England. This occurred during a period when Pakistan had faced a defeat in a Test match at the historic Lord's Cricket Ground. According to the details provided by Rizwan, he was informed at that time that his mobile phone would be returned to him within a short span of approximately 3 hours. However, despite the passage of several weeks, the device remains with the agency, prompting the cricketer to seek legal and formal intervention.

Legal Context and Lahore High Court Ruling

The emergence of this letter follows a significant legal development involving the Lahore High Court. Approximately two weeks ago, the court delivered a verdict on a petition filed by Rizwan. In his petition, the cricketer had challenged the jurisdiction of the NCCIA, claiming that the agency didn't have the authority to investigate this particular matter. However, the Lahore High Court dismissed his plea, effectively allowing the agency to proceed with its investigation.

While the court dismissed the challenge to the agency's jurisdiction, it provided specific instructions to ensure the protection of the cricketer's rights. The court ordered Rizwan to cooperate fully with the agency's investigation. Simultaneously, the NCCIA was directed to ensure that Rizwan doesn't face any form of harassment or unnecessary trouble during the investigative process, while regarding the items held by the agency, specifically the mobile phone, the court stated that Rizwan could approach the court of relevant jurisdiction to seek its return.

Details of the Letter to NCCIA

In his letter to the NCCIA, Rizwan pointed out that despite the court's instructions, the agency has not made any contact with him to move forward in accordance with the judicial directives, while he has demanded a written explanation from the agency regarding the specific incident or case that's the subject of the investigation. Plus, he has asked for clarity on when and for what purpose he's required to appear before the NCCIA in the future.

Voluntary Cooperation and Access

The Pakistani batter clarified in his letter that he had handed over his phone to the agency while he was still in Britain. He emphasized that although there was no legal obligation for him to do so at that time, he provided access to the device voluntarily to demonstrate his intent to cooperate with the investigation, while at that moment, he was given an assurance that the phone would be returned within 3 hours.

Rizwan highlighted that even after four weeks, the mobile phone remains with the NCCIA. He noted that he had even provided the agency with the password to the device to facilitate their work. Despite this level of cooperation, the agency has not contacted him regarding the return of the phone. In his letter, Rizwan stressed that his actions, including the voluntary handover of the device and his overall conduct, prove his willingness to assist in the investigation. He argued that if he's cooperating, the agency should also act with the same spirit. His primary demands remain the return of his mobile phone and a clear statement regarding the case being investigated against him.