Journalist Pir Muhammad Kakar arrested in Loralai

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 9 July 2022

Pir Muhammad Kakar, a journalist known for reporting on local issues, has been arrested in Loralai, Balochistan. His family and fellow journalists allege that the arrest was due to his exposure of corruption within the local administration.

Summary

LORALAI—Pir Muhammad Kakar, a journalist who covered local issues, crime, and exposed corruption, was allegedly detained by the authorities in Loralai, Balochistan.

In a tweet, prominent journalist Hamid Mir pointed out: "Pakistani Journalist Pir Muhammad Kakar was arrested on the orders of DC Loralai without any case. He should be released immediately."

A local journalist also claimed that Kakar was arrested at the behest of deputy commissioner Loralai and transferred to Loralai Jail. The journalist quoted Kakar's son Shah Mohammad Kakar as saying that his father was being punished for telling the truth and highlighting public issues.

"Journalist Pir Mohammad Kakar has been handcuffed at this old age and during Eid days by Deputy Commissioner Loralai for identifying the wrongdoings of the administration," Mustafa Kamal Kakar, a local human rights activist, stated.

Photo credit: @MalikAchkJourno

KEY POINTS:

• Pir Muhammad Kakar was arrested in Loralai without any stated case.
• His arrest was reportedly ordered by the deputy commissioner of Loralai.
• Family members claim he is being punished for revealing the truth.
• Local activists have condemned the arrest as a violation of press freedom.
• Hamid Mir and other journalists have called for his immediate release.