ARY journalist Iqrarul Hassan arrested for exposing poor security at Sindh Assembly

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 29 April 2016 |  JP Staff Report

ISLAMABAD — Iqrarul Hassan, the popular host of ARY Television’s investigative program Sar-e-Aam, was arrested on Friday after exposing serious security lapses at the Sindh Assembly through a sting operation.

Hassan, accompanied by a team member, managed to enter the Assembly building carrying an unloaded pistol without being detected by security personnel. During the session, Hassan instructed his colleague to present the pistol, which was then shown to Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani on the floor of the House, sparking outrage and a heated debate among lawmakers.

Police immediately arrested the journalist inside the Assembly. Sindh Home Minister Sohail Anwar Siyal later announced an inquiry into the incident and ordered the arrest of all those involved in conducting the sting operation. He also suspended the Assembly’s security in charge and formed a committee, led by the DIG South, to investigate.

The arrest triggered widespread calls for Hassan’s release. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside Arambagh Police Station, chanting slogans in his favor. Politicians, television anchors, and civil society activists also demanded that the journalist and his team be freed.

Reporters Without Borders (RSF), quoted by ARY News, defended Hassan’s actions, stressing that he had exposed dangerous security loopholes. “Hassan acted in good faith and identified security flaws... these were the security flaws due to which incidents like 9/11 occurred,” RSF said, urging the government to address the issue rather than punish those who revealed it.

Hassan rose to prominence through Sar-e-Aam, where he regularly highlights corruption and wrongdoing in Pakistani society. His arrest has reignited debate about investigative journalism, public interest reporting, and the boundaries of ethical media practices.