Pakistan restores Ducky Bhai’s bank accounts amid gambling probe
A district court in Pakistan has allowed the restoration of the frozen bank accounts of the country’s popular YouTuber Saadur Rehman, commonly known as Ducky Bhai, as the country agencies continue to investigate the promotion of online gambling apps in the nation.
Reportedly, the Judicial Magistrate, Naeem Wattoo, granted a sigh of relief to YouTuber, ordering that accounts need to be restored again so that Rehman can upload videos again. However, he has been asked not to issue comments on the case. The next hearing is slated for 11 March 2026.
The order comes after an investigation by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), which has filed multiple complaints against several YouTubers and TikTok platform creators for promoting gambling apps. For the unaware, Islamabad bans the operation and advertisement of unlicenced betting services. Authorities are looking into whether endorsements by influencers led users to these platforms.
27 videos flagged for probe
At the latest hearing, a technical official from the NCCIA gave testimony. The prosecutor was absent. The magistrate noted that investigators objected to 27 videos on Rehman’s channel and said the videos should stay online for now as possible evidence.
During the hearing, Rehman appeared with his wife, Aroob Jatoi, and legal counsel. He asserted again that he has done no wrongdoings and unknowingly promoted banned apps in the country.
The YouTuber was detained by authorities at Lahore Airport back in August 2025. His remand has been extended several times, and multiple bail requests have been denied. On 26 November 2025, the Lahore High Court granted him bail with a bond of PKR 1 million ($3750). Though legal experts asserted that his bail doesn’t mean he is free from challenges.
After his bail, Rehman issued a video message apologising to his audience. He clarified that he does not intend to challenge the First Information Report filed against him nor the actions by authorities against him. He also added that his aim has always been entertainment and added that he would cooperate fully with investigators and accept the court’s decision.
More YouTubers on radar
In addition, multiple YouTubers are being investigated. Pakistan is also investigating YouTuber Rajab Butt for allegedly promoting unlicenced gambling and trading applications on social media. The NCCIA has declared 46 mobile apps illegal connected to illegal gambling, unlicenced trading, and major privacy violations as part of a broad crackdown on online gambling. Popular apps like Dafabet, 22Bet, Plinko, and Rabona are among the apps that have been banned.
Investigators are now inspecting whether promotional content on social media channels played a role in directing traffic to gambling platforms and whether any associated financial transactions took place.
Furthermore, this case occurs amid a major effort by Pakistani authorities to curb illegal online gambling activities. Officials have repeatedly cautioned influencers against endorsing betting platforms, arguing that such promotions can give the impression of legitimacy, mainly among younger audiences. The investigation into Rehman forms part of this wider enforcement drive. Further court proceedings are expected as the inquiry continues.
Manila’s calling and it’s not whispering. From 01 to 03 June 2026, SiGMA Asia returns to the undisputed regional heavyweight. With 16,000 delegates, 3,040 operators, and 250+ speakers under one roof, this isn’t just an expo. It’s ignition!
