Saad ur Rehman, widely known as Ducky Bhai, one of Pakistan’s most popular YouTubers, has landed in serious legal trouble after being arrested at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport. The social media star, who boasts nearly nine million YouTube subscribers, was taken into custody by officials of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on Sunday morning.
According to authorities, Rehman was intercepted while attempting to leave the country despite being on the Provisional National Identification List (PNIL). He now faces allegations of promoting illegal online betting and gambling platforms, a charge that has stirred nationwide debate among fans and critics alike.
The NCCIA registered an FIR (No. 196/25) under multiple sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA 2016, amended 2025), including Sections 13, 14, 25, and 26, along with Sections 294-B and 420 of the Pakistan Penal Code.
Investigators claim that digital forensics from Rehman’s confiscated phone revealed promotional material for unlicensed gambling apps such as ‘Binomo, 1XBet, Bet365, and B9 Game’. At least 27 links allegedly advertised these platforms on his YouTube channel, luring users with promises of quick profits that ultimately resulted in major financial losses for many.
Authorities further alleged that Rehman acted as a “Country Manager” for Binomo without approval from the State Bank of Pakistan or the Federal Board of Revenue. Despite being summoned multiple times to join inquiries, he reportedly ignored notices before attempting to travel abroad.
On August 17, Rehman was presented before a Judicial Magistrate at Lahore District Courts. NCCIA requested his custody for further investigation, and the court approved a two-day physical remand, directing that he be presented again on August 19 with a progress update. Advocate Zain Ali Qureshi represented him in court.
Officials also claim that financial records linked to his online accounts point toward payments associated with gambling-related promotions. The investigation is still ongoing, and more evidence could emerge in the coming days.
The arrest is not the first time Ducky Bhai has found himself at the center of controversy. In 2024, he and his wife, influencer Aroob Jatoi, were briefly detained for displaying firearms on social media. Earlier this year, he faced traffic-related cases for over speeding and reckless driving filed by Motorway Police.
Read more: YouTuber Ducky Bhai and Wife Detained Over Firearm Display; Released After Apology