Journalist Matiullah Jan Allegedly Kidnapped in Islamabad
ISLAMABAD – Pakistani journalist Matiullah Jan has reportedly been abducted by unidentified individuals outside the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), according to his family. The abduction occurred on the night of November 26, as confirmed by several rights activists and TV show host Hamid Mir. Another journalist, Saqib Bashir, was also allegedly taken during the same incident.
Jan’s family is preparing to file a petition with the Islamabad High Court seeking his release. Known for his vocal criticism of powerful figures, Matiullah Jan has recently attracted attention for his controversial statements, which many believe may have played a role in his abduction.
Read More: Federal Government reinstates health insurance for journalists
The timing of his disappearance comes amid rising political tensions in the capital. Jan had shared a video showing a Rangers officer being struck by a vehicle. While Jan initially suggested the officer may have been hit by his own vehicle, Rangers officials later clarified that the officer was run over by a speeding vehicle driven by protesters.
Reports also suggest that PIMS hospital staff were allegedly pressured not to report injuries or deaths related to a late-night operation against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protesters. However, further details remain unclear as authorities have not released any official statements.
The abduction has raised serious concerns regarding press freedom and the safety of journalists in Pakistan. The country continues to be one of the most dangerous places for media workers, with frequent attacks, target killings, and impunity for the perpetrators, alongside growing restrictions on press freedom.
