The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has removed Additional Director Sarfraz Chaudhry of the Lahore office following multiple controversies, directing him to report to headquarters in Islamabad, reported Dawn.
Chaudhry said that while he has been transferred to the Islamabad base, he has requested a six-month leave. He noted that the responsibilities he was overseeing will be taken on by his successor. He also cautioned that he will respond “at an appropriate time” to those who have been trolling him on social media.
Three main issues prompted the action. First, there were allegations that Chaudhry intervened in the cases of several YouTubers and social media influencers—including Saadur Rehman (Ducky Bhai) and Rajab Butt—for their alleged involvement in unregulated online trading and promotion of online gambling apps.
Second, an FIR was registered against some lawyers who allegedly tried to secure the release of a suspect detained by NCCIA; one lawyer claimed that the detention was illegal and that a court bailiff had come to NCCIA Lahore to facilitate the release.
Third, a dispute arose between a group of Lahore journalists and certain police officials, including a Deputy Inspector General (DIG), over steps taken by NCCIA against the police in that matter.
