ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court today ordered a fresh probe into the Bitcoin ransom threat case against Malik Riaz, Pakistan’s renowned property tycoon. A First Information Report already registered involves a ransom threat to Malik Riaz. In the FIR, Malik Riaz alleged that an unidentified person demanded 50 bitcoins, valued at over Rs 1.42 billion, as ransom and threatened harm to Malik Riaz and his family in Pakistan and abroad if the ransom was not paid.
The IHC had set aside the earlier order of the Judicial Magistrate (Section 30), who had dismissed the case. Writ petition No. 1346/2025, filed by Colonel (retd) Khalil-ur-Rehman, was allowed by Justice Muhammad Asif, and the case was remanded for a lawful probe under Section 173 of the CrPC.
Ransom Demand Communicated via Email
The FIR, numbered 117/25, was registered on January 29, 2025, under Section 506 of the Pakistan Penal Code for criminal intimidation. It was mentioned that screenshots and email headers referencing Malik Riaz and Bahria Town were included, confirming the demand for 50 bitcoins. A cancellation report had been prepared on February 4, 2025, but the high court observed that the process was completed hastily and lacked transparency.
Threats and Surveillance Alleged in FIR
Malik Riaz’s security officer lodged the complaint at Aabpara police station about a threatening email received on January 12 at 4:15pm. The email demanded bitcoins and threatened family members living abroad. Later, an unidentified individual was seen photographing and recording Malik Riaz’s residence, further heightening concern.
According to the FIR, the email address originated from Switzerland, nonetheless, the investigators believe the unknown outlaw has threatened from within Pakistan.
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