NCCIA Reopens Harassment Case as Fresh Digital Evidence Emerges
LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has issued fresh notices to television actor Momina Iqbal and PML-N MPA Saqib Chadhar after new digital evidence emerged in the harassment case involving allegations of online harassment and threats.
Both individuals have been summoned to appear before the NCCIA office in Lahore on September 4. The agency has also formed a special investigation team to conduct a fresh inquiry into the matter.
According to NCCIA Punjab Deputy Director Waqas Saeed, the special team will examine the newly obtained digital evidence along with records collected during the earlier investigation. The team, headed by a deputy director-level officer, has been given one month to complete its investigation and submit a report to the NCCIA director general.
Fresh Evidence Under Review
The latest development marks a new phase in the case. Investigators will assess whether the new digital material changes the understanding of the allegations and whether further legal action is required.
The NCCIA has stressed that it would be premature to declare either Momina Iqbal or Saqib Chadhar guilty or innocent before the fresh inquiry is completed. Any future action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
Court Proceedings
The development also came during proceedings concerning pre-arrest bail petitions filed by Saqib Chadhar and his wife. The investigating officer told the Lahore court that their arrest was not required at the present stage, after which the bail petitions were withdrawn.
The case first gained widespread attention after Momina Iqbal publicly alleged online harassment, cyberbullying and threats. The NCCIA later registered a case under provisions of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act and the Pakistan Penal Code.
With the emergence of new evidence, investigators will now reassess the available material before deciding the next legal steps.