Journalist and government critic Imran Riaz Khan arrested at Sialkot Airport

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published 2 years ago

ISLAMABAD— Pakistani journalist and vlogger Imran Riaz Khan, known for his outspoken criticism of the military and the government, was apprehended at Sialkot Airport just as he was preparing to depart for Oman.

The arrest has raised concerns for press freedom in Pakistan and follows a wave of arbitrary detentions targeting journalists, political supporters, and others that commenced after the recent arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Imran Riaz Khan disclosed his arrest through a video clip posted on social media platforms. He expressed that his attempt to leave the country stemmed from the challenges he faced in uploading his videos due to internet services being blocked. Additionally, he mentioned that his team had suggested that his voice should continue to reach people, leading him to pursue his departure.

"They have detained me," he asserted. "I have been subjected to harassment and threats, and my family has faced intimidation." Khan further revealed that the orders for his arrest had originated from Raiwind, the residence of the Nawaz Sharif family.

Imran Riaz was also arrested in July last year in Islamabad.