ISLAMABAD: To complete its ongoing inquiry, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is set to contact national cricketer Mohammad Rizwan again for access to his mobile phone for a detailed forensic examination.
As per media reports, the agency has contacted Rizwan several times regarding access to his phone, but he has not fully cooperated with the inquiry team so far. They said the NCCIA may issue a written notice if he does not cooperate in futre so that to proceed the inquiry further.
According to sources, a special investigation team has been constituted to examine matters involving Rizwan and fellow cricketer Imam-ul-Haq. The NCCIA wants to conduct a comprehensive forensic examination of Rizwan’s phone in his presence. Sources said the device’s anti-theft and facial recognition locks need to be disabled for the detailed analysis.
The agency can reportedly unlock the phone using different mobile forensic tools. However, sources said using such tools could result in the deletion of some data, which the investigators want to avoid. Sources said Rizwan’s physical presence is therefore required during the forensic examination. The agency has reportedly offered to conduct the process in his presence rather than relying solely on automated forensic software.
Investigators also want Rizwan to be present because entering an incorrect password could potentially affect access to data stored on the device, according to sources. Meanwhile, forensic analysis of Imam-ul-Haq’s mobile phone has already begun in his presence. Sources said Imam is cooperating with the investigation and expressed hope that the detailed examination of his device would be completed soon.
The NCCIA is investigating the case from multiple angles, including online betting, corruption and possible criminal activities, sources said. The investigation is currently underway at the agency’s Islamabad office.
Sources also claimed that some people were encouraging Rizwan not to cooperate with the agency, but said they were not acting in his best interests. They added that the NCCIA did not want to level any allegations until the investigation was completed.
The latest development follows an earlier appearance by Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq before the NCCIA in Lahore on September 10. Both players were questioned in an inquiry linked to alleged dressing-room information leaks and other allegations involving cricket. Rizwan later submitted a written response to the agency, seeking clarification about the reasons for his summons and the continued retention of his mobile phone.
Rizwan and Imam had earlier appeared before the NCCIA in Lahore on September 10. Rizwan later approached the Lahore High Court against the inquiry. The court directed him to cooperate with the proceedings and said the agency should not harass or unnecessarily inconvenience him.
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