The Lahore District and Sessions Court has granted interim bail to Youtuber Rajab Butt and TikToker Nadeem Mubarak Naniwala in a case related to the promotion of gambling apps, providing them temporary relief from arrest.
The interim bail petitions were heard by Additional Sessions Judge Mansoor Ali Qureshi. Both suspects appeared through their counsel, Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq, seeking protection from arrest.
After hearing arguments, the court granted interim bail until January 6 and restrained law enforcement agencies from arresting the accused during this period.
Ordered to join investigation
The court directed Rajab Butt and Nadeem Mubarak Naniwala to join the investigation and cooperate fully with authorities. The petitioners assured the court that they would comply with all legal requirements and assist investigators.
The court made it clear that bail relief was conditional upon cooperation.
Also Read: IHC grants protective bail to YouTuber Rajab Butt, TikToker Naniwala
According to court proceedings, Rajab Butt applied for interim bail in one case, while Nadeem Mubarak Naniwala sought bail in two cases registered by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
The cases relate to the alleged promotion of gambling applications on social media platforms.
Protection from arrest until Jan 6
As part of the interim order, the court restrained the arrest of both accused until January 6, offering temporary legal protection while investigations continue.
The matter is expected to be taken up again once the interim bail period expires.
On Dec 10, Butt and Naniwala had reached Islamabad from the UK on a foreign flight. Both remained inside Islamabad airport for several hours before being allowed to leave. Once cleared, they exited the terminal under protective custody provided by their own private guards, avoiding any interaction with law enforcement officials on-site.
Also Read: Youtuber Rajab Butt, TikToker Naniwala return to Islamabad
Earlier that day, IHC's Justice Inam Amin Minhas had heard a petition seeking protective bail for both men. During the hearing, the petitioners’ lawyer informed the court that a case had also been registered against them in Karachi and requested 15-day protective bail to allow sufficient time to appear before the relevant court.
Justice Inam Amin Minhas, however, granted 10-day transit (protective) bail and instructed the petitioners to approach the court concerned within this period.
