LONDON (MNN); Popular YouTubers Rajab Butt and Nadeem Nani Wala arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday night after being deported from the United Kingdom.
The two social media figures landed in Islamabad on British Airways flight BA-2161 from London, where they were received by friends at the airport. A large number of social media activists were also present to express solidarity with them.
Earlier, the Islamabad High Court had approved protective bail for both Rajab Butt and Nadeem Nani Wala in cases linked to an online gambling application and alleged violations of cybercrime laws.
Justice Inam Ameen Minhas presided over the hearing on the petition filed by the two seeking protective bail.
During the proceedings, their lawyer, Advocate Ahed Khokhar, informed the court that his clients were ready to appear before the trial court and fully cooperate with the legal process.
He argued that the petitioners should be permitted to re-enter Pakistan without the risk of immediate arrest, enabling them to present themselves before the appropriate judicial forum.
Pakistani YouTuber and social media personality Rajab Butt has been deported from the United Kingdom after the Home Office cancelled his visa over undisclosed legal cases, a move that has sparked widespread discussion.
Visa Revoked for Withholding Information
According to UK Home Office officials, Butt’s visa, which was valid until 2027, was revoked after authorities discovered that he had failed to disclose multiple pending legal cases in Pakistan. The omission violated British immigration regulations, which require full disclosure of all ongoing investigations or legal matters.
Discovery During Security Inquiry
The scrutiny intensified after an inquiry involving Britain’s MI-16, during which Butt and fellow YouTuber Nadeem Naniwala were briefly detained following anonymous complaints alleging links to terrorism. Both were cleared of such accusations. However, while Naniwala, a British national, was released, Butt’s documents were forwarded for further verification. During this review, officials found undisclosed active cases, some of which had already been shared with UK authorities by Pakistani institutions.
Nature of the Allegations
The cases reportedly included investigations related to promoting online gambling applications that allegedly caused financial loss to users, along with complaints connected to religious sensitivities concerning a perfume advertisement. These pending matters became part of the immigration assessment.
Formal Removal and Uncertain Next Steps
Following the findings, British authorities issued a formal notice instructing Butt to leave the country immediately. A close associate confirmed his departure, while Nadeem Naniwala said he was accompanying him back to Pakistan. It remains unclear whether Butt will remain in Pakistan or attempt to travel elsewhere, as he may still face inquiries over the alleged promotion of gambling apps. Earlier this month, the Islamabad High Court granted protective bail to both Butt and Naniwala.
Rajab Butt gained popularity through lifestyle vlogs and brand promotions on social media. His involvement in marketing betting and gaming applications, which are illegal in Pakistan, led to criticism and legal notices from individuals claiming financial loss.
A separate controversy involving religious sentiments further added to his legal challenges. Though the cases were still under investigation, UK immigration rules require applicants to disclose all pending matters. Officials determined that the omission amounted to misrepresentation, which automatically invalidated his visa. It was this misrepresentation—rather than the allegations themselves—that ultimately triggered his deportation.
