Terrorism clauses added to FIR in journalist torture case

RAWALPINDI: Terrorism provisions have been added to the FIR registered over the assault on journalists outside Adiala Jail by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers.

According to police, FIR No. 1169/25 was lodged at Sadar Bairooni Police Station on the complaint of journalist Tayyab Baloch. The case names Aliya Khan, PTI’s lawyer Naeem Panjotha, Intisar Satti, and around 40 unidentified party workers.

Sections applied in the FIR

The FIR includes charges under sections 506, 147, 149, 382, and 427 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), along with Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) and subsection 21(i).

Police stated that the accused obstructed media representatives from performing their professional duties and subjected them to violence. Section 21(i) of the ATA was invoked for planning and conspiracy, while Section 7 ATA was applied for forcefully preventing journalists from coverage.

Investigation and legal proceedings

According to officials, the arrested suspects will now be produced before an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC). An inspector-rank officer has been assigned to conduct the investigation.