Journalist Khalid Jamil remanded

ISLAMABAD: Local court has granted two days physical remand of journalist Khalid Jamil, who serves as the bureau chief of Ausaf Broadcasting Network (ABN) News.

Khalid Jamil was taken into custody by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) at his residence in Media Town, Islamabad under the Cyber Crime Act.

The family of Khalid Jamil has confirmed the detention by the FIA, expressing uncertainty regarding the specific case prompting his detention.

PEMRA bans coverage of ‘proclaimed offenders’ including journalists, politicians

On Friday, Khalid Jamil appeared before the court, where the FIA sought a 10-day physical remand for the journalist. The FIA cited charges against Khalid Jamil under the Cyber Crime Act.

In response, the defense attorney, Naveed Malik, contested the remand request, emphasizing the fundamental right to freedom of expression for every citizen. Malik alleged that the FIA had contravened its own regulations and disregarded the orders of the Islamabad High Court.

However the FIA legal team said that they need the remand to find electronic devises from Khalid Jamil and also need access to his social media accounts.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Judge Shibber Bhatti reserved his  judgment on the matter. However later it announced a two day physical remand of Khalid Jamil.

Meanwhile, the journalistic community has reacted strongly to Khalid Jamil’s arrest, expressing deep concerns.

Anwar Raza, President of the National Press Club in Islamabad, issued a statement saying, “We urge the government to understand that such actions aimed at stifling the voices of journalists will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Journalists will not compromise their freedom of expression.”