Farhan Mallick, a journalist and founder of the digital media platform Raftar, has been remanded into the custody of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for four days of physical remand.
During a hearing at Karachi’s Judicial Magistrate (East) court today, Mallick’s legal counsel contended that inquiries regarding the journalist were already underway and pointed out that the Sindh High Court had previously issued directives barring legal action. Despite these orders, the FIA chose to proceed with the case, the lawyer argued.
The FIA detained Mallick the previous day, citing alleged violations of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) and accusations of defamation.
According to the FIR, Mallick, who previously served as director news for a private television channel and currently manages his own YouTube channel, is accused of sharing content deemed anti-state.
The FIR notes that an initial technical analysis of the YouTube channel revealed evidence suggesting Mallick’s involvement in producing and distributing posts and videos containing false information and a public incitement agenda.
The FIR further alleges that Mallick has consistently uploaded such content, which has reportedly harmed the reputation of public institutions internationally—actions that constitute a criminal offense under the law.
