The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday granted a 10-day transit bail to popular YouTuber Rajab Butt and TikToker Nadeem Naniwala, who are facing cybercrime charges for allegedly promoting a gambling application.
The decision came shortly after Butt returned from the United Kingdom, where his visa had been cancelled, prompting speculation about his deportation. During the hearing, Justice Inam Ameen Minhas instructed both individuals to approach the relevant trial courts within the 10-day period to pursue legal remedies.
The petitioners’ lawyer had requested a 15-day transit bail, citing a separate case registered in Karachi against the two. However, the court approved only 10 days, giving the suspects a clear timeframe to follow up on their legal matters.
Earlier, the IHC had directed authorities not to arrest Butt upon his arrival at the airport, granting him protective bail. Speaking to journalists, Butt clarified, “I was not deported; one does not return via business class after deportation.” He added that his UK visa had been cancelled and that he had submitted a request to the UK Home Office regarding pending cases against him. Butt confirmed that his name is not on the Exit Control List (ECL) and that he intends to remain in Pakistan while his case is ongoing.
Nadeem Naniwala also addressed the media, noting that he holds UK citizenship and his visa remains valid.
According to sources, Butt’s visa cancellation arose after British authorities discovered that he had failed to disclose ongoing legal cases while applying for the visa—a key violation that led to the UK Home Office ordering his immediate departure.
The situation unfolded following an investigation by British authorities, including MI-6, who detained Butt and Naniwala after anonymous complaints suggested possible involvement in terrorism-related activities. Sources confirmed that both influencers were cleared of any terrorism links during the inquiry.