KARACHI: The Sindh High Court has issued an order prohibiting the National Cyber Crime Agency from apprehending former President Arif Alvi and his family members.
In a hearing concerning a petition challenging the agency’s investigation into Arif Alvi and twelve of his relatives, as well as the freezing of their bank accounts, the court provided specific instructions. The court directed Arif Alvi and his entire family to cooperate by appearing before the Cyber Crime Agency and emphasized that neither Arif Alvi, his son Owaab Alvi, nor any other family members should be detained.
It was also ordered that the family, including Arif Alvi, must voluntarily present themselves for investigation. The court advised that if they believe they have committed no wrongdoing, they should not avoid the inquiry. If there are concerns about potential arrest, they are advised to seek legal protection through bail. The court further requested the agency and relevant authorities to submit a report by October 21.
During the proceedings, the investigation officer clarified that inquiries are ongoing regarding allegations of blasphemy against the petitioner, and despite multiple notices, the petitioner has failed to appear. Alvi’s legal representative contended that the baseless blasphemy allegations are being misused against him. The lawyer also argued that the Cyber Crime Agency lacks the authority to freeze bank accounts, and while there is only one allegation, the bank accounts of his entire family have been blocked.
The ex-president and his relatives have filed a legal challenge against the account freezes. The defense attorney added that the accounts were frozen due to alleged non-cooperation in the blasphemy investigation, and emphasized that Arif Alvi has not engaged in any blasphemy.
