Lahore High Court Grants Bail to YouTuber Ducky Bhai in High-Profile Gambling Promotion Case
In a major development in one of the country’s most widely discussed digital-crime investigations, the Lahore High Court on Friday granted bail to prominent YouTuber Saad ur Rehman, popularly known as Ducky Bhai, who had been in custody for over two months on allegations of promoting illegal online gambling and betting platforms.
Justice Shehram Sarwar Chaudhry approved the bail petition submitted by the influencer’s legal representatives and ordered him to submit surety bonds worth Rs1 million. The courtroom witnessed heightened media attention as Ducky Bhai, who commands millions of subscribers across social platforms, appeared alongside his lawyers Imran Raza Chadhar and Shehryar Goraya.
The case, which has fueled intense public debate about digital responsibility, online crime, and institutional accountability, took a dramatic turn following the court’s decision marking a temporary relief for the influencer while investigations remain ongoing.
Arrest at Lahore Airport Sparked National Attention
Ducky Bhai was taken into custody by officials from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in mid-August after he was intercepted at Lahore Airport upon returning from a trip abroad. Authorities alleged that he had played a significant role in promoting gambling and betting applications through his digital platforms, particularly on YouTube, where his videos routinely attract millions of views.
The allegations placed him under investigation for offenses falling under multiple provisions of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, as well as several sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). Prosecutors claimed that his promotional campaigns encouraged unsuspecting users to invest money into these apps, ultimately leading many to financial loss.
The arrest immediately sparked a nationwide conversation among fans, digital creators, and policymakers, with many questioning both the influencer’s alleged involvement and the extent of state oversight over online content creators.
Case Originated From Inquiry Into Influencers Promoting Gambling Apps
According to investigation records, the case formally began on June 13, following an inquiry triggered by the discovery that multiple Pakistani influencers were allegedly advertising or endorsing digital betting platforms. Investigators reported that several content creators were receiving financial incentives in return for promoting online gambling, which is illegal under Pakistani law.
The FIR lodged by NCCIA alleged that thousands of citizens invested their hard-earned money into these applications after being influenced by the promotional content. Many victims reportedly suffered severe monetary losses as the apps disappeared, malfunctioned, or withheld payouts without explanation.
The FIR specifically accused Saad ur Rehman of not only creating and uploading promotional videos but also working as a “country manager” for at least one gambling platform. Authorities listed 27 video links from his YouTube channel that allegedly contained direct or indirect promotional messaging for such apps.
Previous Bail Requests Were Rejected
Before approaching the Lahore High Court, Ducky Bhai had filed bail applications at both the District Courts and the Sessions Court, but each petition was rejected. The lower courts ruled that the allegations were serious and required further investigation before any relief could be granted.
With options narrowing, the influencer’s legal team escalated the case to the High Court, arguing that their client was being unfairly targeted, and that the charges lacked substantial evidence. Earlier this month, Justice Shehram Sarwar Chaudhry issued notices to NCCIA officials, directing them to present comprehensive arguments and provide clarity regarding the progress of the investigation.
Following several hearings and extended scrutiny, the court concluded that the evidence presented at this stage did not justify prolonged custody and granted him bail.
Legal Team Claims Misuse of Authority by Investigators
The case took a dramatic turn in late October when nine NCCIA officers including individuals directly involved in Saad ur Rehman’s investigation were themselves accused of misusing their powers and allegedly accepting bribes from the YouTuber during the inquiry.
These allegations were formally acknowledged by internal authorities, prompting disciplinary actions against the officers and raising serious concerns about the transparency, impartiality, and integrity of the investigation.
For Ducky Bhai’s defense lawyers, this development became a critical point. They argued that the actions of the NCCIA officers cast doubt on the authenticity of the evidence and the motivations behind the case. The defense insisted that the accusations against their client may have been manipulated or exaggerated for personal gain.
This controversy significantly intensified public debate, with many questioning whether the influencer was being framed or whether corrupt practices within the investigative agency had compromised due process.
Public Reaction: Divided Opinions and Heated Debate
The case has polarized public opinion across Pakistan.
Supporters of Ducky Bhai including many from the gaming and entertainment community celebrated the bail decision as a step toward justice. They argue that while influencers should act responsibly, promoting third-party apps is a common industry practice worldwide, and that authorities must distinguish between legitimate sponsorships and criminal intent.
On the other hand, critics believe the case highlights a growing problem in Pakistan’s digital space where content creators, often with young and impressionable audiences, sometimes promote harmful or misleading products for lucrative deals. They insist that the law should be enforced strictly, especially when public financial harm is involved.
Digital rights activists added another layer to the discussion, pointing out the need for clearer guidelines, better regulatory frameworks, and transparent investigative procedures to prevent both exploitation by influencers and abuse of power by authorities.
What Comes Next? Investigation Continues
While the bail decision allows Saad ur Rehman temporary freedom, legal proceedings are far from over. The High Court’s ruling does not dismiss the charges; rather, it allows the YouTuber to remain out of custody while the investigation continues.
Authorities are now under pressure to re-evaluate the case with impartial oversight, especially in light of the allegations against NCCIA officials. Senior investigators are expected to present revised findings in the coming weeks, and the court will resume reviewing the matter in upcoming hearings.
Legal experts believe the case could set a major precedent for Pakistan’s digital media landscape. It may shape how online promotions are regulated, how sponsorship disclosures are handled, and how law enforcement agencies approach cyber-related offenses involving influencers.
A Case Symbolizing the Complexities of the Digital Age
The controversy surrounding Ducky Bhai serves as a significant reminder of the challenges posed by the intersection of social media influence, digital advertising, and national law. With millions of followers and substantial impact, influencers today wield immense power and with that power comes responsibility.
At the same time, the accusations of corruption within the investigative agency underscore the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and institutional reform.
As the case progresses, the public will be watching closely. For now, Ducky Bhai’s release on bail marks a pivotal moment in a case that continues to unfold one that could shape the future of online content regulation in Pakistan for years to come.
