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NCCIA Begins Forensic Examination of Imam-ul-Haq’s Phone
LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has started the forensic examination of cricketer Imam-ul-Haq’s mobile phone, while Mohammad Rizwan has yet to cooperate with the ongoing investigation, according to sources.
Imam Cooperates With Investigation
According to NCCIA sources, Imam-ul-Haq initially showed some hesitation but later cooperated with investigators.
The agency has now begun analysing his mobile phone as part of an inquiry into alleged disciplinary and off-field conduct issues involving Pakistan players.
Rizwan Yet to Cooperate
Sources said the NCCIA had contacted Mohammad Rizwan several times regarding the forensic examination of his phone.
However, Rizwan has not yet complied with the court’s direction to cooperate with the inquiry, according to the sources.
The agency is expected to contact him again on September 28. If he does not cooperate, another written notice could be issued.
Lahore High Court Directions
The development follows a written judgment by the Lahore High Court, which directed Rizwan to cooperate with the NCCIA investigation.
At the same time, the court instructed the agency to proceed strictly according to law and not harass or unnecessarily trouble the cricketer.
The NCCIA is therefore proceeding cautiously while keeping the court’s directions in view.
Agency Offers Alternative Arrangement
Sources said the NCCIA has offered to send its investigation team to Rizwan if he is unable to appear at the agency’s Lahore office.
The agency has also maintained that it will not make allegations against any individual before completing its investigation.
Rizwan’s Position
Rizwan previously told the Lahore High Court that he had not been provided with details of the alleged online betting-related charges.
He maintained that the International Cricket Council’s Anti-Corruption Unit was the appropriate forum for investigating corruption allegations involving cricketers.
Rizwan also said that he would be able to respond effectively if specific allegations and relevant details were provided to him.
How the Inquiry Started
The inquiry followed concerns over players’ discipline and conduct after Pakistan’s disappointing performances in the opening two Tests against England.
The Pakistan Cricket Board subsequently conducted an internal inquiry, which was later referred to the NCCIA.
On September 10, Rizwan and Imam appeared before the NCCIA at its Lahore office. Both requested additional time to submit detailed responses, while their mobile phones were taken into custody for forensic examination.
Dressing-Room Leaks Also Under Investigation
The PCB has also been investigating alleged dressing-room leaks and related matters.
The board has said that no final report has been prepared against any player and has urged against treating speculation or unverified information as established facts.
Any conclusions, according to the PCB, will be based on evidence gathered during the investigation.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The NCCIA is expected to complete its forensic analysis of Imam-ul-Haq’s phone, while further contact with Rizwan is expected in the coming days.
The agency has said the purpose of the inquiry is to establish the facts and assess the matters under investigation before reaching any conclusions.
