Cricketer Mohammad Rizwan accused of non-cooperation in NCCIA probe: Report

Karachi: Former Pakistan captain and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has reportedly failed to cooperate with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in an ongoing investigation involving him and teammate Imam-ul-Haq, according to a local media report.

Citing well-placed sources within the NCCIA, a leading Pakistani newspaper reported that Rizwan has repeatedly ignored requests to present his mobile phone for a formal forensic examination.

"We have contacted Rizwan several times and asked him to come and meet us and be present when we carry out forensic analysis of his phone so that no data is wasted. But either he has not taken calls or told us to contact his lawyer," an NCCIA source was quoted as saying on Sunday.

The official added that the agency even offered to dispatch a specialised team to Rizwan’s residence if he was unable to attend in person, but received no response.

"He is not cooperating in the inquiry which we want to complete as soon as possible as the Lahore High Court has also directed us to complete our inquiry quickly," the source stated.

The NCCIA representative clarified that their actions fall entirely within legal parameters and operate independently of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

"There are some suspicions which need to be cleared. Legally, at present, both players are not guilty of any wrongdoing and if we find no evidence they will be cleared as soon as possible," the source added.

Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, and Salman Ali Agha were instructed to return home following the second Test against England. Upon landing, security personnel accompanying the Pakistani contingent confiscated Rizwan and Imam's mobile devices, after which both players were summoned for questioning by the cybercrime agency.

While both cricketers attended an initial session with investigators earlier this month, the probe has stalled. Rizwan has since retained legal counsel.

According to the report, the NCCIA plans to escalate the matter if the non-cooperation persists, preparing to serve Rizwan with a formal legal notice compelling his appearance.

The investigation originally came to light after a leaked internal NCCIA document revealed that officials were scrutinising suspected betting activities linked to online gambling platforms. (PTI)