In a disturbing incident at London’s Heathrow Airport, Dr. Tehreem Ansari, wife of prominent researcher and analyst Dr. Umair Ansari, was allegedly subjected to harassment and threats reminiscent of the fate of Dr. Imran Farooq, a founding member of MQM who was murdered in 2010. The assailant also stole two hand-carry bags containing valuable documents, cell phones, cash, and passports.
As per news reports, the incident occurred near the women’s restroom close to the exit gates. As Dr. Tehreem entered the restroom, the assailant verbally threatened her, referencing her past residence in Karachi’s Sharifabad near Dr. Farooq’s home. The assailant warned her to cease her activities or face consequences similar to Dr. Imran Farooq’s fate.
The Ansari family had arrived in London on June 13, a Saturday evening, just a day after narrowly escaping an assassination attempt in Karachi. Dr. Tehreem, visibly shaken by the threats, immediately alerted her family, causing panic among their children. They swiftly departed for their London residence by taxi. During the unloading of luggage, unidentified individuals stole two small suitcases containing passports, cash, and crucial documents.
Dr. Umair Ansari expressed deep concern over the incident, highlighting the ongoing threats and harassment faced by his family both in Pakistan and now in London. He reaffirmed his commitment to human rights, freedom of expression, and democracy, stating that non-state actors are intimidated by his efforts but emphasized his determination to continue his work undeterred.
Earlier, on July 12, Dr. Ansari survived an assassination attempt in Karachi when assailants in a white car opened fire near Malir River as he headed to the Pakistan Development Forum’s office. Though unharmed, the incident resulted in the postponement of a scheduled symposium.
Dr. Ansari had been in Pakistan to finalize an impartial report on the 2023 Karachi local elections and the February 8, 2024 general elections, documenting irregularities and lack of transparency. The report, incorporating perspectives from international observers and stakeholders, faced opposition from unidentified groups pressuring him to halt his work.
On July 4, upon returning from Bahria Town, Karachi, Dr. Ansari, and his family were harassed by unidentified motorcyclists who threatened them and referenced their London residence, indicating knowledge of their whereabouts. Despite these challenges, Dr. Ansari remains resolute in his mission to uncover truths and advocate for democratic rights.
