Rizwan Questions NCCIA Over Shifting Investigation Reasons
Mohammad Rizwan seeks clarity from NCCIA as investigation reasons shift from betting allegations to PECA 2016 provisions.
Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Rizwan has raised serious concerns regarding the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) following what he describes as inconsistent explanations for the ongoing probe into his conduct. In a formal written response, the cricketer highlighted significant discrepancies between the initial reasons provided for the enquiry and the latest communication received from the agency.
Conflicting Allegations: Betting vs. PECA 2016
The core of Rizwan's grievance lies in the sudden change of the investigation's scope. According to reports from Cricinfo, the initial notice served to the player explicitly stated that the enquiry was linked to allegations of betting and gambling within Pakistan cricket. However, the most recent correspondence from the NCCIA omitted any mention of gambling.
Instead, the agency's latest letter claimed that Rizwan is being investigated under the "relevant provisions of PECA 2016"—the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act. Crucially, the NCCIA has failed to specify which particular provision of the Act Rizwan is alleged to have violated, leaving the player and his legal team in a state of uncertainty.
Legal Team Defends Integrity
Rizwan’s legal representatives have expressed strong disapproval over the handling of the case. They argued that the mere association with a betting and gambling enquiry has already tarnished his reputation and integrity. The team pointed out that Rizwan has been denied a fair opportunity to defend himself because the specific charges remain undisclosed.
The legal team has raised several critical questions, including:
- Whether the scope of the investigation has fundamentally shifted from betting to a different legal breach.
- Whether the NCCIA consulted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) or the ICC anti-corruption units at any point during this process.
Dispute Over Confiscated Mobile Phone
Adding to the tension, Rizwan has once again demanded the return of his mobile phone. The device was reportedly taken from him in London just one day after Pakistan’s defeat in the second Test match at Lord’s. Rizwan has challenged the legality and due process of the seizure, noting that he was never provided with a seizure inventory or any official custody record for the device.
Background of the Investigation
This saga began following Pakistan's loss to England in the second Test of the series. The NCCIA initiated an investigation involving both Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq, leading to both players being recalled to Pakistan. While Imam-ul-Haq chose to comply by completing the agency's questionnaire, Rizwan has opted to seek legal counsel to navigate the mounting complexities of the case.
Despite the ongoing disputes, Rizwan has confirmed his intention to appear before the agency as instructed on October 2.