Zareq Nazir Returns to Pakistan Amid Gambling Probe

LONDON/LAHORE: British-Pakistani social media influencer and TikToker Zareq Nazir has announced his return to Pakistan to cooperate with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in an inquiry regarding illegal online gambling and betting platforms. Nazir has urged authorities to treat him fairly during the investigation.

Nazir, a popular online trader with millions of followers, has been named in an NCCIA FIR alongside fellow influencer Nadeem Naniwala, whose real name is Nadeem Mubarek. Naniwala recently returned to Pakistan from London along with prominent YouTuber and influencer Rajab Butt. Butt had been staying at Naniwala’s South London residence when both were reportedly arrested by UK authorities.

Speaking to a private news channel, Nazir said, “I was present when Nadeem Naniwala and Rajab Butt were arrested. Their phones were switched off for almost 48 hours. Rajab Butt’s legal issues began after that arrest when UK authorities reviewed his visitor status, which ultimately led to its revocation. The arrests followed complaints, including requests from Pakistani authorities.”

Read more: IHC Grants 10-Day Transit Bail to Rajab Butt & Nadeem Nani Wala

It is reported that Pakistani authorities have also filed a complaint against Nazir in connection with the same FIR involving Naniwala. Nazir confirmed, “I will return to Pakistan on Monday. I had planned to travel with Nadeem and Rajab, but they left the UK without informing me. I only learned of their departure through Geo News.”

The FIR registered at NCCIA Police Station Lahore cites Sections 13, 14, 25, and 26 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 (amended 2025), along with Sections 294-B and 420 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The case alleges that Nazir and Naniwala used their social media platforms to encourage the public to invest in online trading, gambling, and betting applications for personal gain. They are also accused of jointly promoting multiple betting platforms on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, misleading viewers into believing these applications were profitable investments, which caused financial losses.

Nazir denied any wrongdoing, saying, “I have never used any gambling apps or promoted illegal activities. The FIR against me is false. The NCCIA targeted me because I showcased expensive cars with Rajab Butt in London and handed out cash to people in Lahore and Sialkot. I have no legal issues in the UK or Dubai, where I operate a company and send funds to Pakistan legally. Displaying cars and lifestyle content is part of my legitimate trading work.”

He further appealed for justice, saying, “I did not join the inquiry earlier because I feared being blackmailed or tortured. Look at what happened to Ducky Bhai, who was arrested, mistreated, and extorted. He was only released due to military assistance. Seeing that institutions protected him, Nadeem, Rajab, and I decided to return, confident in our institutions. I am coming now with full faith in their fairness.”

This development highlights growing scrutiny of social media influencers in Pakistan for alleged involvement in online gambling and financial scams, while Nazir maintains his innocence and insists his activities are legitimate.