KARACHI: A senior journalist, Syed Muhammad Askari, has gone missing after he was picked up by authorities, a private TV channel reported.
According to reports, Askari was returning from wedding with a friend when a police mobile and a white vehicle intercepted their car near the Qayyumabad KPT Interchange on Korangi Road on Saturday.
Askari was reportedly taken into custody by police and personnel in plain clothes. His companion was later released and brought the vehicle to office and reported the situation.
His friend further stated that police and other unidentified men in plain clothes detained them, even though Askari has introduced himself as a reporter. Askari’s friend contacted the police helpline and was asked file a complaint to the police station.
Zaman Town Police Station SHO Rao Rafiq denied knowing about the incident. Korangi SSP Tariq Nawaz said information about the incident was being obtained. The Karachi Press Club, Karachi Union of Journalists and the Education Reporters Association have condemned the incident and demanded Askari’s immediate recovery.
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that he received information about the journalist and has spoken to channel’s management. The minister said he discussed the matter with Additional IG Police and Askari is being traced.
