An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad, led by Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra, ordered a two-day physical remand for journalist Matiullah Jan after his arrest by Islamabad police. Jan was brought to court following several hours of undisclosed detention, reportedly taken into custody near the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and later formally held at Margalla Police Station.
During the hearing, prosecutor Raja Naveed sought a 30-day remand to investigate alleged contraband recovery and trace its source, sparking laughter in the courtroom due to the claims. The court ultimately authorized a shorter remand for further investigation.
Read more: Journalist Matiullah Jan Abducted in Islamabad Following PTI Protest
The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) condemned the arrest as a breach of press freedom and human rights, demanding Jan’s release. PFUJ leadership warned of nationwide protests if authorities failed to act, while media and human rights groups raised concerns over the growing threats faced by journalists in Pakistan.
