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Ex-Pak Captain Rashid Latif in Cyber Crime Probe

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Ex-Pak captain in trouble! Cyber Crime Agency launches probe

The world of Pakistan cricket has been rocked by a serious legal development. Former national captain Rashid Latif is now facing an official investigation by the country’s National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) for his outspoken comments against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi . In a stunning twist, another legend of the game, Wasim Akram, has also been pulled into the cyber-crime net over a separate, but equally grave, allegation .

This isn’t just a case of a heated social media post; it’s a formal legal proceeding that raises critical questions about freedom of speech, the power of sporting bodies, and the legal boundaries for public figures in Pakistan’s digital age.

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Rashid Latif’s PCB Criticism Sparks Probe

The probe against Rashid Latif stems directly from his recent, scathing public remarks about the PCB’s leadership and its decisions. Latif, known for his candid views, had openly criticized the board’s handling of the national team’s captaincy, questioning the quality of current leadership and the processes behind it . His specific comments targeted PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, with one report framing the issue as a potential challenge to Naqvi’s authority, even using the provocative headline “Mohsin Naqvi Turns Dictator?” .

The NCCIA has deemed these comments severe enough to warrant an official investigation. While the exact legal grounds are still emerging, it’s understood that the case falls under Pakistan’s cybercrime laws, which can cover offenses like defamation or acts that are deemed to disturb public order through electronic means .

Understanding the NCCIA and Its Powers

To grasp the gravity of the situation, it’s crucial to understand the agency leading the charge. The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is a powerful, specialized body established by the Government of Pakistan in May 2024 . It is now the “sole authority” for handling all cybercrime investigations nationwide, with a mandate to protect the nation’s digital ecosystem .

The NCCIA’s jurisdiction is broad, covering everything from online fraud and hacking to child pornography and identity theft . Its recent expansion of powers under the Anti-Money Laundering law further underscores its significant and growing authority within the Pakistani legal framework . An investigation by this agency is not a casual matter; it is a formal legal process with potentially serious consequences.

Wasim Akram: The Gambling App Allegation

While Rashid Latif‘s case is centered on criticism, the NCCIA is also investigating a separate complaint filed against another Pakistani great, Wasim Akram. The allegations against Akram are of a different nature entirely. A complaint has been filed accusing him of “endorsing and associating with an online gambling and betting app” called Baji .

Promoting gambling is a highly sensitive issue in Pakistan, where such activities are largely illegal. The complaint alleges that Akram’s association with the app constitutes a violation of the country’s cybercrime and financial regulations . The NCCIA has confirmed it is probing this matter under the Electronic Crimes Act . This has also led to significant fan backlash against the former all-rounder . It is important to note that this is a separate individual from a YouTuber of the same name who was recently arrested on unrelated espionage charges .

A Pattern or a Particular Moment?

The simultaneous scrutiny of two of Pakistan’s most iconic cricketers creates a complex narrative. Is this a sign of a broader crackdown on dissent and public commentary from former players, or is it a confluence of two distinct, serious allegations that happen to involve high-profile figures?

For Rashid Latif, the issue is fundamentally about the right to critique a public institution that is funded by and accountable to the nation’s cricket fans. His case could set a concerning precedent for the future of free speech within the Pakistani sporting discourse. On the other hand, the allegations against Wasim Akram, if proven, would involve a direct violation of financial and cyber laws, placing it in a different ethical and legal category.

Conclusion: A Tense Chapter for Pakistani Cricket

The dual investigations into Rashid Latif and Wasim Akram mark a tense and uncertain chapter for Pakistan cricket. While the legal processes must take their course, the situation has ignited a fierce debate about the balance between accountability, legality, and the freedom of former players to contribute to the health of the game they once served. The outcomes of these probes will be closely watched not just by fans, but by the entire international cricketing community. For more on the history of dissent in Pakistan cricket, see our piece on [INTERNAL_LINK:Cricket History – Pakistan Cricket Controversies].

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