Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan’s alleged lack of cooperation with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has reportedly prolonged the ongoing inquiry, with the agency set to contact him again on Monday, reported the 24News HD TV channel.
According to sources, the NCCIA has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the matters involving Rizwan and fellow cricketer Imam-ul-Haq.
Sources said the agency had assured Rizwan that the inquiry would be conducted in accordance with the Lahore High Court’s directions. However, they claimed that the former captain has not fully cooperated with the investigation.
The NCCIA is expected to contact Rizwan again on Monday and may issue another notice if he continues to withhold cooperation, sources said. They added that further action could be taken according to law if his position remains unchanged.
Meanwhile, Imam-ul-Haq has reportedly started cooperating with the NCCIA after initially showing reluctance. Sources said his case could see further developments within the next one and a half weeks.
Sources claimed that Rizwan’s alleged lack of cooperation has raised further questions, while a reportedly unwarranted and negative social media campaign surrounding him has also added to the suspicions being examined by investigators.
The NCCIA also reportedly found some suspicious material during cyber patrolling, and its investigation into the material is continuing.
Sources said Rizwan and Imam initially responded to questions concerning around 70 matters, while the inquiry team also reminded the two cricketers about certain issues during the proceedings.
The agency reportedly wants Rizwan’s mobile phone unlocked for a deeper forensic audit so that its digital data can be examined further.
Sources further said the International Cricket Council (ICC) has so far not contacted the NCCIA regarding the matter.
The Lahore High Court has directed Rizwan to join and cooperate with the NCCIA inquiry while restraining the agency from harassing him. The court has not made any finding of wrongdoing against the cricketer.
Reporter: Hafiz Shahbaz