News Desk: A local court on Monday issued fresh non-bailable arrest warrants for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi after he repeatedly failed to appear before the court in a cybercrime case registered under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
Senior Civil Judge Muhammad Abbas Shah ordered law enforcement authorities to ensure the arrest of the chief minister and produce him before the court at the next hearing. The judge took the step after Afridi remained absent despite previous court directives and summons.
The case was filed by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), which is investigating allegations related to the dissemination of online content reportedly targeting state institutions. Authorities claim the material violated provisions of Pakistan’s cybercrime laws, prompting legal proceedings against the chief minister.
During the hearing, the court expressed concern over the accused’s continued non-appearance and decided to renew the non-bailable warrants. The matter was subsequently adjourned until June 18.
In a separate cybercrime-related development, the same court granted the NCCIA four days of physical custody of vlogger Sohrab Barkat to facilitate further investigation.
Investigators informed the court that Barkat is facing legal action over a video uploaded to his YouTube channel concerning the Joint Action Committee. According to the agency, the content prompted the registration of a case under relevant cybercrime provisions.
After reviewing the NCCIA’s request, the court approved a four-day physical remand, allowing investigators to continue questioning the accused and gather additional evidence.
The latest proceedings highlight the growing focus on enforcement of Pakistan’s cybercrime regulations, with authorities pursuing cases involving digital content and alleged violations of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act.
