Samaa TV producer killed in Karachi

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 18 February 2022

Athar Mateen, a prominent producer with Samaa TV, was killed in Karachi while reportedly being robbed. The incident has raised concerns over journalist safety in the region.

Summary

KARACHI—Athar Mateen, a senior producer associated with Samaa TV, was shot dead Friday morning in North Nazimabad, Karachi.

According to Samaa TV's Chief Crime Reporter Ahmar Rehman Khan, Mateen was killed near the Five Star Chowrangi during a robbery.

The police have sealed the crime scene and are collecting evidence. Further investigations are underway.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took notice and instructed Karachi's additional IG to prepare an investigation report immediately.

Sindh Governor Imran Ismail said that the police should protect citizens' life, property, and honor. He urged the Sindh government to take practical steps to eradicate lawlessness.

Later in the day, Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed deep sorrow over journalist Athar Mateen's "senseless killing" and strongly condemned the incident. He has directed every possible effort to bring the accused to justice.

Immediately after, Federal Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed sought a report from the chief secretary and Sindh IG.

Meanwhile, the opposition has called out the government for failing to protect journalists. "This country is unsafe for media persons," said PML-N's Hamza Shahbaz.

Additional IG Karachi Ghulam Nabi Memon has formed a team headed by DIG West to investigate the murder. SSP Special Investigation and SSP Central will be part of the team.

Mateen is survived by a widow and two daughters.

KEY POINTS:

• Athar Mateen was shot near Five Star Chowrangi in North Nazimabad.
• Sindh Chief Minister and Governor have called for immediate investigations.
• Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the killing and called for justice.
• A special investigation team has been formed to look into the murder.
• Mateen is survived by his wife and two daughters.