LAHORE: Reports have emerged that prominent Pakistani television anchor Iqrar Ul Hassan was allegedly taken into custody from his residence in DHA Phase 8, Lahore, during a late-night operation. His family claims that several individuals entered the house, damaged doors and took away mobile phones and other electronic devices.
According to his wife, Farah Iqrar, female personnel were also present during the operation. She said their badges bore the name of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
Farah alleged that the family members were asleep when unidentified individuals forcibly entered the house after breaking the main gate and doors. She claimed that the individuals proceeded into different rooms and took away mobile phones, an iPad and other belongings. She also alleged that her own mobile phone was taken during the incident.
According to Farah, the home’s security system and digital video recorder (DVR) were also damaged during the operation, raising concerns about whether footage of the incident would remain available.
Qurat-ul-Ain Alleges Forced Entry at Around 2 AM
Iqrar Ul Hassan’s first wife, Qurat-ul-Ain, has also made serious allegations regarding the incident.
According to her account, between five and seven men and two women allegedly entered the house by force at around 2 AM and took Iqrar Ul Hassan away in two vehicles.
Qurat-ul-Ain claimed that DHA security personnel were present at the time but did not take effective action. She further alleged that although the family contacted the police emergency helpline 15, police arrived approximately an hour and a half later.
She also claimed that when the family went to the police station to lodge a report, officials allegedly refused to register it, citing a lack of Wi-Fi connectivity.
Referring to Iqrar Ul Hassan’s journalistic career, Qurat-ul-Ain said he had spent nearly two decades exposing issues involving influential individuals and powerful circles. She added that her son had witnessed the situation.
Family Appeals to Maryam Nawaz for Immediate Action
Qurat-ul-Ain has appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to take immediate notice of the reported incident and direct the relevant authorities to act.
She urged the authorities to establish Iqrar Ul Hassan’s whereabouts and take steps to ensure his safe return to his family.
She also expressed concern over the implications of such an incident for public safety, arguing that if a prominent journalist’s family could face such a situation, similar concerns could arise for ordinary citizens.
Qurat-ul-Ain appealed to the public to raise their voices in support of Iqrar Ul Hassan’s safety and safe return.
Social Media Users Raise Questions About the Reported Operation
The reports concerning Iqrar Ul Hassan’s alleged detention have prompted reactions on social media.
Several users have questioned the reported manner in which the operation was conducted, arguing that if he was required for questioning in connection with an investigation, the authorities could have followed the applicable legal procedures to summon him.
However, the reasons for the reported operation, the circumstances surrounding his alleged detention and his current whereabouts require independent verification. An official statement from the relevant authorities would help clarify the situation.
Son Pehlaj Appeals for Prayers for His Father’s Safety
Iqrar Ul Hassan’s son, Pehlaj, also shared a message on Instagram, appealing to people to pray for his father’s safety.
His message reflected the family’s concern over the situation and their anxiety about his father’s well-being.
The family has also appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to take immediate notice of the matter, clarify Iqrar Ul Hassan’s whereabouts and help ensure his safe return home.
Note: The allegations outlined in this report are attributed to members of Iqrar Ul Hassan’s family. The circumstances of the reported operation and his current status require independent confirmation. An official response from the relevant authorities was not included in the information available for this report.
