Pakistani journalist Farhan Mallick arrested by Federal Investigation Agency

Pakistani journalist Farhan Mallick was arrested Thursday by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), his news organization and the agency said.

Mallick, founder of the digital news outlet Raftar and former news director of Samaa TV, was detained after appearing at FIA headquarters for a hearing.

An FIA official, on condition of anonymity, told Nukta that the investigation into Mallick began about three months ago. He said the journalist was taken into custody after the probe concluded.

According to a statement released by Raftar, FIA officials had visited their office without prior notice on Wednesday evening. "They harassed our team, provided no explanation for their visit, and summoned Mr. Farhan Mallick to their office for a hearing today at 1 p.m.," Raftar stated.

The news organization reported that Mallick complied with the summons. "In compliance, Mr. Mallick appeared at the designated office at the required time. However, after making him wait for hours without cause, the authorities arrested him at 6 p.m.," the statement said.

Raftar expressed concern over the arrest in their statement: "We are deeply concerned by this blatant intimidation of independent journalism. Raftar stands for truth, accountability, and the right to report freely without fear. The lack of transparency in this situation raises serious questions about press freedom and the targeting of independent voices."

The organization has called for "immediate clarity on Mr. Farhan Mallick's arrest" and "the protection of journalists and media professionals from unjust harassment."

'Kept waiting for five hours'

Faisal Waheed, a senior producer at Raftar, provided additional details about the events leading to Mallick's arrest. According to him, three FIA officials visited their office on Wednesday.

"They came in, opened the door and walked directly inside without introducing themselves. They simply stated they wanted to see Farhan Mallick and proceeded in. When three FIA officials enter in such a manner, it's clearly intimidating," Faisal told Nukta.

He explained that Mallick was kept waiting for approximately five hours at the FIA office before being arrested.

"They haven't provided an FIR [First Information Report], nor have they informed us about the allegations against him," Faisal said. He added that they are trying to obtain the FIR to understand the nature of the charges.

According to Faisal, unofficial sources suggest Mallick may face accusations related to violations of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), though this remains unconfirmed pending the official filing of the FIR.