The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on 9 December 2025 granted protective bail to YouTuber Rajab Butt and fellow social-media personality Nadeem Naniwala.
A single-judge bench led by Raja Inam Amin ordered that authorities may not arrest them upon their arrival at Islamabad Airport. The court has required them to appear in person the next day.
Both individuals are facing multiple cases in different parts of the country. Allegations include cybercrime charges and accusations of illicit promotion of online gambling platforms. The bail order comes just hours before their scheduled return to Pakistan.
Their lawyer, Ahad Khokhar, represented them in court. The legal move was taken to prevent potential arrest and ensure their arrival does not lead to immediate detention.
Supporters of Rajab Butt and Naniwala welcomed the decision, calling it a temporary relief that allows them to face the court process without fear of immediate arrest. Some critics, however, continue to call for full accountability, urging courts to proceed with investigations.
With the protective bail in place, both influencers will now have to appear before the IHC, which will review their legal status and schedule further hearings. The cases against them remain active under the laws related to cyber and online offences.
