Unidentified gunmen intercept Aaj anchor Rana Mubashir's car

JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 23 September 2016 | JP Staff Reporter

Rana Mubashir's car was intercepted by two unidentified gunmen looking for him, highlighting the threats faced by journalists in Pakistan. Fortunately, his son was unharmed during the incident.
Summary

ISLAMABAD –Two unidentified gunmen forcefully intercepted a car belonging to prominent Aaj TV anchor Rana Mubashir on Thursday. The car was being driven by his son, who fortunately was not physically harmed during the incident.

Mubashir was not in the vehicle at the time of the incident, which occurred near D-Square on Jinnah Avenue. He informed JournalismPakistan.com that the gunmen had come looking for him. “They were in a silver-colored Honda Civic bearing registration No. SC 16 and hit the side mirror of my car before intercepting it,” Mubashir recounted. “One of them was carrying a Kalashnikov while the other had a small weapon.”

According to Mubashir, the gunmen appeared disappointed upon realizing he was not in the car. “They left saying some other time perhaps,” he added, noting that he had no known enmity with anyone.

The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of journalists and their families. Rana Mubashir, known for his fearless reporting and in-depth analysis, has been a prominent figure in Pakistani media, making the threat against him particularly alarming.

The Kohsar Police Station has launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area. Journalist unions and media organizations have condemned the incident, urging the government to ensure the safety and protection of media professionals. They stress the need for a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice and to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Mubashir has expressed gratitude for the support he has received from colleagues and the public. He said he remains committed to his work, despite the threats.

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