"These so-called ‘influencers’ are getting what they deserve."
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has expanded its probe into Pakistan’s gambling apps probe.
Several high-profile influencers have now been summoned for questioning.
Influencers Mudassar Hassan, Muhammad Anas Ali, Sistrology’s Iqra Kanwal, and Muhammad Husnain Shah have received official notices.
They have been directed to appear at the NCCIA Lahore office on September 2, 2025.
Authorities allege that these influencers promoted unlicensed gambling and trading apps.
They are accused of encouraging thousands of young people to invest in unregulated platforms, causing significant financial losses across the country.
Iqra Kanwal’s notice accused her of designing an orchestrated scheme to loot innocent people’s hard-earned money by promoting illegal apps.
Officials said failure to comply would forfeit their right to present a defence.
Reports claim that the controversial platform “World 777” heavily funded influencer campaigns.
It paid creators to glamorise its services and lure users into high-risk betting environments.
Investigators estimate that billions of rupees leave Pakistan each month through these platforms.
This unregulated flow of funds has created a shadow economy, fuelling financial instability and gambling addiction.
On social media, one user wrote: “It’s time to crack down on these scams. So many people have lost their savings.”
Another user commented:
“These influencers should be ashamed. They built their careers on trust and used it to exploit people.”
Additional influencers reportedly linked to the promotions include Mathira, Aimen Zaman, Varda Malik, Nadir Ali, Javeria Aurangzeb, Faryal Fairy, Abeera Khan, and Nauman Kazmi.
Industry analysts note these schemes often target young and vulnerable audiences. The apps promise high returns, using flashy marketing and false claims to convince people to invest.
A user wrote: “These apps are traps. Authorities must make examples of everyone involved.”
This follows the arrest of Ducky Bhai at Lahore airport on August 16, 2025. His physical remand has been extended until 1st September as investigations continue.
Public outrage has intensified. Many social media users are demanding accountability and tougher laws against unlicensed gambling promotions.
A user demanded: “Ban these apps permanently and fine every influencer who endorsed them.”
Another said: “This is so satisfying, the society is starting to get cleansed now”
One stated: “I am excited. These so-called ‘influencers’ are getting what they deserve.”
The authorities have assured that more updates will be provided after the upcoming hearings and interrogations.
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