ISLAMABAD/LONDON – Prominent Pakistani social media influencer Rajab Butt has returned to Pakistan after UK authorities revoked his visa, citing a failure to disclose ongoing legal proceedings against him in his home country.

The revocation came approximately 18 months after Butt's initial visa application. According to sources familiar with the case, UK immigration officials took action because Butt did not declare that he is the subject of multiple cases in Pakistan. These cases are reportedly tied to allegations of promoting unauthorized online gambling platforms, including apps like Binomo and 1xBet.

Questioning and Revocation
Reports indicate that both Butt and his associate, Nadeem Naniwala, were questioned by UK officials following information and complaints forwarded by Pakistani authorities. While both men were reportedly cleared of any immediate wrongdoing in the UK, officials determined that Butt's visa application contained a material misdeclaration by omitting his legal entanglements in Pakistan. This led to the decision to end his permission to stay.

Butt's legal representative has stated that the influencer left the UK voluntarily and was not deported. Upon arrival in Pakistan, he and Naniwala surrendered before the Islamabad High Court.

Legal Status in Pakistan
The Islamabad High Court has granted both men protective bail, shielding them from arrest until their next court appearance, scheduled for Wednesday. They are expected to face proceedings related to Pakistan's ongoing cybercrime crackdown, which has increasingly targeted influencers and celebrities for promoting illicit financial activities online.

Broader Implications
This case highlights the tightening international scrutiny on digital influencers and the legal risks associated with undisclosed overseas proceedings. It also underscores the collaborative efforts between nations in enforcing cybercrime laws, as actions by Pakistani authorities directly triggered the UK's immigration review.

The situation remains fluid, with further developments anticipated after the duo's court appearance later this week.