Terrorism and drug charges filed against journalist Matiullah Jan

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 28 November 2024 |  JP Staff Report

ISLAMABAD—A terrorism and narcotics case was registered against journalist Matiullah Jan on Thursday, following his reported abduction by unknown individuals on Wednesday night.

The case was lodged by the Margalla police based on a complaint from SP Asif Ali. According to the FIR, Matiullah was found in possession of 246 grams of methamphetamine (crystal meth) when his vehicle was stopped in the E-9 area.

The FIR includes charges under Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) 1997, alongside sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). These include rash driving, receiving stolen property dishonestly, issuing threats of death or grievous hurt, mischief causing damage exceeding Rs50, assault on a public servant, and obstructing a public servant in the discharge of duties.

The FIR alleges that Matiullah's vehicle failed to stop at a checkpoint in E-9, during which he "rammed the vehicle, injuring Constable Mudassir." It further claims that upon being stopped, Matiullah assaulted the constable, seized his SMG rifle, and pointed it at him. The FIR also states that Matiullah appeared to be under the influence of narcotics, and a quantity of crystal meth was recovered from his car.

These allegations have sparked widespread controversy, with concerns over the validity of the charges and their implications for press freedom.