Journalist Arzoo Kazmi alleges FIA threats, possible arrest over reporting

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 8 April 2025 |  JP Staff Report

Arzoo Kazmi, a journalist and YouTuber, claims she faces threats and possible arrest from the FIA due to her reporting. Her situation underscores concerns over press freedom in Pakistan.

Summary

ISLAMABAD–Journalist and YouTuber Arzoo Kamzi has alleged that state institutions, including the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), have targeted her for her outspoken journalism. In a video message posted to the social media platform X on Tuesday, Kamzi said she is being punished for calling a spade a spade.

“I’m a journalist who has worked in print, electronic, and digital media, and I speak truthfully on my YouTube channel. That’s my habit, and I won’t change it,” she stated in the video.

Kazmi revealed that she had earlier received threatening messages and character assassination campaigns online and via phone, in addition to official letters from the FIA. Matters escalated when she recently discovered her national identity card (CNIC), passport, and bank account had been blocked—actions she says were carried out by Pakistani agencies.

“When I tried to withdraw money from my bank, I was informed my account had been blocked. I was also told my CNIC and passport were disabled,” she said. A phone number and the name of a supposed FIA contact were provided, but it was switched off when she tried calling the number repeatedly. “I believe this was intentional—to create a situation that would justify my arrest,” she claimed.

Aroo Kazmi says she has learned that preparations for her arrest are underway. “Journalism in Pakistan demands immense courage,” she said, pointing out the increasing suppression of press freedom.

Despite the threats, she remains defiant. “I am not afraid. Even if they arrest me or torture me, I won’t back down. I will not surrender to their pressure.”

She appealed to her supporters and followers to amplify her message by sharing her video, stating, “Let the world know—doing journalism in Pakistan is being treated as a crime.”

Her statement adds to the growing concern over the diminishing space for independent journalism in Pakistan, where reporters frequently face intimidation, harassment, and censorship.