Pakistani Journalist Matiullah Jan Arrested While Investigating Protest Violence
Jan, a vocal critic of Pakistan's military influence, faces terrorism charges after reporting on alleged casualties during pro-Imran Khan demonstrations.
- Matiullah Jan, a prominent Pakistani journalist, was detained by Islamabad Police while investigating claims of civilian casualties during protests for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
- Jan and his colleague Saqib Bashir were reportedly abducted by unidentified men in black uniforms at a hospital parking lot before Jan was formally arrested.
- Jan has been charged with terrorism, drug peddling, and attacking police, accusations his lawyer and family have dismissed as baseless.
- The Committee to Protect Journalists and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan have condemned Jan's detention, calling for his immediate and unconditional release.
- Jan is known for his criticism of Pakistan's military and previously questioned official accounts of protest-related deaths, including claims of live ammunition use by security forces.