PFUJ Condemns Police Raids, NCCIA Notices to Journalists; Warns of Nationwide Protests

Lahore (RNN TV) — The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has strongly condemned recent police raids and notices issued by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to crime reporters in Lahore, calling the move a direct attack on press freedom and freedom of expression.

In a joint statement, PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari termed the raids and notices as an attempt to intimidate journalists and silence critical reporting, particularly amid growing tension between crime reporters and the Lahore police.

The PFUJ expressed serious concern over the notices issued by the NCCIA to senior journalists, including PFUJ Secretary General Arshad Ansari, Ahmed Faraz, Sheraz Nisar, Waseem Sabir, and Yasir Shamoon Mujahid Sheikh. “This is an open assault on the journalistic community,” the statement read, demanding strict action against those responsible.

The union also condemned a police raid on the residence of Punjab Union of Journalists (PUJ) President Naeem Hanif, calling it “a grave violation of press freedom.” PFUJ reaffirmed its solidarity with PUJ leadership and demanded accountability for those behind the raid.

PFUJ has urged Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to take immediate action, withdraw the NCCIA notices within 24 hours, and ensure the safety and security of journalists.

“If the government fails to act, PFUJ will be left with no option but to announce countrywide protests, boycotts of government events, and walkouts from provincial assemblies and parliamentary proceedings,” the union warned.

The PFUJ reiterated its commitment to defending freedom of the press, vowing that journalists “will not be silenced or intimidated” and that the union will continue its struggle to safeguard the rights of the media community.

Source: Web Desk