Israeli Authorities Deny UN Aid to Northern Gaza Amid Intensifying BombardmentSenior journalist Matiullah Jan faced booking in a terrorism and narcotics case on Thursday, sparking outrage among rights groups. His reported arrest from Islamabad last night and subsequent events have raised serious concerns over press freedom and due process in Pakistan.
Journalist’s Reported “Abduction”
Jan’s son claimed that unknown individuals “abducted” his father from Islamabad late Wednesday night.
Following this, police registered an FIR against Jan in the early hours of Thursday.
Fellow journalist Asad Toor confirmed that he met Jan briefly at the Margalla police station in the morning.
“He was fine,” Toor said. However, he added that police later took Jan to an unknown location. “His whereabouts are unknown, and we don’t know in which court he will be presented,” Toor remarked.
Details of the FIR
The FIR, filed by Superintendent of Police Asif Ali, accused Jan of possessing 246 grams of crystal methamphetamine (ice) when his car was stopped at a police checkpost in Islamabad’s E-9 area.
The FIR invoked various provisions, including Section 9(2)4 of the Control of Narcotic Substances Act (CNSA), which deals with the possession of between 100g and 500g of psychotropic substances. The charges also included Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) 1997, along with several sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).
Allegations of Rash Driving and Assault
The FIR alleged that Jan was driving a white Toyota Yaris at high speed toward F-10 and ignored police signals to stop. It claimed Jan rammed his vehicle into Constable Mudassir, injuring him, before stepping out, assaulting the officer, and attempting to snatch his SMG rifle.
Police alleged that Jan was under the influence of narcotics at the time of his arrest. A search of his car reportedly uncovered a bag containing crystal meth under the driver’s seat.
Legal and Rights Concerns
Rights organizations have raised alarms over Jan’s treatment and the seriousness of the charges. The timing of the arrest and accusations have fueled speculation about possible motives to target the journalist for his work.
Observers have pointed out discrepancies in the case, such as the alleged assault, the timing of the FIR, and the nature of the charges, calling for an impartial investigation.
Public and Journalistic Reaction
The case has sparked widespread criticism from journalists and civil rights activists. Many have called it a direct attack on press freedom in Pakistan. Calls for Jan’s immediate release and transparency in the investigation process are growing louder.
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