Islamabad: Veteran journalist Matiullah Jan was arrested early Thursday following an alleged altercation at a security checkpoint in Islamabad’s E-9 sector. The incident has since escalated into a contentious issue, with claims of abduction and calls for accountability from human rights organizations.
Details of the Arrest
According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed by the police, Jan’s vehicle reportedly failed to stop at the checkpoint, resulting in a collision that injured a constable. The FIR further alleges that Jan seized the officer’s government-issued weapon and issued threats against him. Authorities claim the journalist appeared “under the influence” at the time.
Jan was taken into custody and transported to Margalla Police Station, where legal proceedings were initiated. He was scheduled to appear before an anti-terrorism court later in the day.
Abduction Allegations
Despite the arrest, conflicting reports have emerged about Jan’s whereabouts. Human rights lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir claimed that Jan was “missing” after police allegedly removed him from the station.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jan’s son, Abdul Razzaq, alleged that his father was abducted from the parking lot of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) around 11 PM by individuals in an unmarked vehicle. Journalist Saqib Bashir, who was reportedly with Jan, was also briefly abducted but later released.
Outcry from Rights Groups
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has expressed grave concerns over Jan’s safety, demanding his immediate release and a transparent investigation into the incident. The organization highlighted the impunity surrounding Jan’s previous abduction in 2020.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) also condemned the alleged abduction, calling it an “authoritarian tactic to silence journalists.”
“This dangerous trend of targeting journalists must stop,” the HRCP stated in a press release.
Background
Jan, known for his fearless reporting on sensitive issues, has previously faced abduction and intimidation. The current controversy follows his extensive coverage of recent protests in Islamabad, raising concerns over press freedom and the safety of journalists in Pakistan.
Authorities have yet to comment on the allegations of abduction. The situation remains tense, with activists and media organizations rallying for clarity and justice in the case.
