The FIA account freeze policy is drawing public concern as Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) continues to block individuals’ bank accounts over alleged links to “anti-state” content—often without prior notice or due process.
Collateral Damage Without Evidence
Nasir discovered his account was blocked in April. The same journalist and his mother also found their accounts inaccessible. The journalist had previously been accused of running an online campaign against the judiciary.
In May, the Islamabad High Court ordered the restoration of the journalist’s account, criticising the FIA’s approach. The court stated the freeze violated constitutional rights, as the journalist was not given prior notice or a chance to respond.
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More Victims, Same Pattern
Others have experienced similar treatment. Atif Sajjad Raza, who owns a media production house, and Rozi Khan, another bird seller, also had accounts frozen after transacting with the same journalist. In Raza’s case, FIA demanded he submit an affidavit disavowing the journalist’s political views to regain access.
Another Islamabad-based journalist saw his wife’s and sister’s accounts frozen without warning. He said the FIA claimed, without documentation, that he was under investigation for money laundering.
Rights Groups Raise Alarm
Reporters Without Borders has repeatedly listed Pakistan as one of the most dangerous places for journalists. Iqbal Khattak of Freedom Network called the freezing of accounts “a new tool to mentally exhaust independent journalists.”
Despite inquiries, the new National Cybercrime Investigation Agency has not clarified its policy. Meanwhile, people like Nasir, with urgent financial needs, remain trapped in bureaucratic silence, relying on others for basic transactions.
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