IHC Grants Protective Bail to Rajab Butt & Nani Wala Today – Full Case Details & Return From UK Explained
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday granted 10-day protective bail to two well-known Pakistani content creators — YouTuber Rajab Butt and TikToker Nadeem Mubarak, popularly known as Nani Wala — after they appeared voluntarily before the court following their return from the United Kingdom.
The case has become one of the most discussed topics today as thousands of fans and critics search for updates on the allegations, FIRs, and whether the two influencers were actually deported from the UK. Here is the complete situation explained in simple terms.
Why Rajab Butt and Nani Wala Went to the IHC Today
Both influencers were facing multiple cases in Pakistan, including:
- Promoting gambling applications
- Cybercrime violations
- Misuse of digital platforms
- Displaying a fake number plate
- A past case involving illegal possession of a lion cub
- A blasphemy-related FIR linked to a perfume brand launch
Since several investigations were pending, they feared arrest immediately upon landing in Pakistan. Their families had already filed a petition seeking protection so they could present themselves before the proper legal forums without being detained at the airport.
What the Islamabad High Court Decided
Justice Raja Inam Ameen Minhas granted 10 days of protective bail to both influencers. This bail means:
- They cannot be arrested automatically during the next ten days.
- They must appear before the relevant courts or investigation agencies within this period.
- It gives them legal cover to cooperate with ongoing inquiries instead of being taken into custody directly.
The judge made it clear that the purpose of the bail is not permanent relief but to allow both creators to follow the legal process safely.
Were They Deported From the UK? The Real Story
Hours before their arrival, social media was filled with claims that Rajab Butt had been deported by the UK government.
However, his lawyer Mian Ali Ashfaq rejected these rumours and confirmed:
- Rajab Butt was not deported
- His UK visa was not cancelled due to any criminal issue
- He returned voluntarily to face cases and seek legal protection
This clarification has settled the confusion that had been circulating online for days.
Complete Timeline of Cases Filed Against the Influencers
1. Gambling App Promotion FIRs (2024–2025)
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) registered cases accusing both influencers of:
- Promoting illegal gambling apps
- Earning commissions from digital betting platforms
- Encouraging youth to use such apps
These allegations fall under cybercrime and digital fraud sections.
2. Fake Number Plate Case – “IK-804” (Nani Wala)
Nadeem Mubarak was arrested earlier for using a fake registration number IK-804 on his vehicle.
The number reportedly references Imran Khan’s prison inmate number, raising questions about intent and legality.
He failed to provide a satisfactory explanation to the police at that time.
3. The “295 Perfume” Controversy (Rajab Butt)
Rajab Butt launched a fragrance named “295”, a number associated with Pakistan’s blasphemy law section.
A religious group filed a complaint claiming the product was disrespectful, leading to an FIR under:
- Blasphemy-related PPC sections
- Cybercrime and online religious offence provisions
4. Illegal Lion Cub Case (2023–2024)
In another headline-making incident, Rajab Butt was arrested for keeping an undocumented lion cub and weapons at his residence.
He later:
- Pleaded guilty
- Avoided jail time by agreeing to create animal rights awareness videos for a full year
This case resurfaced as authorities reviewed his pending matters.
Why the Court Granted Bail Today — Key Legal Points
The court considered the following:
- Both influencers appeared voluntarily
- They expressed willingness to join investigations
- Pakistani law allows seeking protective bail before arrest
- Arresting them at the airport without trial or hearing could be improper
Thus, the IHC gave temporary protection so they can attend relevant forums.
What Happens Next? (The Most Searched Question Today)
This is the part everyone is waiting for. Over the next 10 days, Rajab Butt and Nani Wala must:
- Appear before FIA Cybercrime Wing
- Present themselves in courts where FIRs are registered
- Provide statements about gambling app promotions
- Cooperate in cases related to religious offence complaints
- Clarify financial transactions connected to betting apps
- Face the vehicle fake plate case (for Nani Wala)
After 10 days:
- They may apply for regular bail
- Courts may extend protection if investigations require
- They may face trial proceedings depending on evidence
Public Reaction on Social Media
As expected, reactions have been mixed:
- Supporters say both influencers are being targeted.
- Critics argue they must be held accountable for promoting harmful apps.
- Some express concern over the rise of online gambling trends in Pakistan.
- Many fans seemed relieved that the two did not face immediate arrest.
The debate continues across X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok.
Why This Case Matters for Digital Influencers in Pakistan
This situation highlights several important realities:
- Influencers are now under strict legal scrutiny
- Promoting gambling apps can lead to criminal charges
- Digital content creators must understand cybercrime laws
- Social media fame does not protect anyone from investigations
- This case may set a legal precedent for future influencer marketing rules
Conclusion
The IHC’s decision to grant 10-day protective bail has given both Rajab Butt and Nani Wala a brief window to defend themselves legally. Their return from the UK marks the beginning of a long investigation process that may shape how Pakistan regulates online content creators in the future.
More updates are expected as the influencers appear before FIA and different courts in the coming days.
