Pakistan arrests YouTuber Ducky Bhai over gambling promotion
Pakistani YouTuber Ducky Bhai, whose real name is Saad ur Rehman, was arrested on 17 August 2025 at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore. The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) carried out the operation after Rehman was reportedly attempting to leave the country for a private event, sparking speculation about the reason behind his sudden stop.
Authorities flagged his name at immigration as it appeared on the Provisional National Identification List (PNIL), a measure that prevents individuals from travelling abroad amid ongoing investigations.
Alleged gains from illegal gambling
The YouTuber has been accused of promoting gambling applications, including Binomo, B9 Game and other prominent names. Officials allege the apps defrauded users by failing to pay out promised returns, and that Rehman personally profited from these promotions. The NCCIA also claims he acted as a “country manager” for one gambling firm without approval.
Authorities claim that these gambling apps have funnelled millions of dollars out of Pakistan, raising serious concerns about the financial impact of illegal online betting. The investigation began on 13 June 2025, following reports that digital influencers were actively promoting unauthorised gambling platforms to the public.
Officials say the promotions not only encouraged widespread participation but also allowed some individuals to profit illegally from the schemes. A complaint filed with authorities included 27 video links connected to Rehman’s content, although some have since been removed.
During his arrest, Rehman’s mobile phone was seized. Investigators say it contained communications about gambling promotions and evidence of financial transactions linked to these activities. Following the arrest, the NCCIA obtained a two-day physical remand for the purpose of questioning. As the case has progressed, a report was submitted to the court on 19 August 2025.
Pakistan tightens crackdown
The arrest comes as Karachi authorities intensify scrutiny on digital influencers. In an interview with local media, Chaudhary Sarfaraz, Additional Director of Cyber Crime, directly named Rehman as someone who encourages gambling among young audiences through online platforms.
Sarfaraz warned that influencers promoting a lifestyle centred on party culture and luxury, while undermining education and responsible behaviour, would face strict action. He emphasised that the crackdown will not spare anyone involved in such digital campaigns, indicating a wider regulatory push against content that could harm young populations or violate financial regulations.
However, this is not Rehman’s first legal challenge. Earlier in 2025, the YouTuber faced court proceedings for reckless driving on a motorway, for which the Lahore High Court granted him protective bail. Despite controversies, Rehman remains one of Pakistan’s most popular YouTubers, having won Best YouTuber of the Year at the Pakistan International Screen Awards in 2020 and 2021.
The arrest and words from Pakistan authorities indicate increasing government scrutiny of social media influencers who promote gambling apps and online betting platforms. With the NCCIA leading the investigation, authorities are sending a clear signal that high-profile figures will be held accountable for endorsing unauthorised gambling services.
