CEO of Digital Media Outlet Farhan Malik Remanded by Judicial Magistrate
Karachi: Judicial Magistrate has approved a four-day physical remand for journalist Farhan Malik, who was recently taken into custody by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). The Judicial Magistrate East presided over the case and instructed the FIA’s Cyber Crime Wing to present a progress report at the next hearing.
Farhan Malik, the founder of the YouTube channel Raftar, was detained by FIA officials a day before his court appearance. His arrest was confirmed by Raftar editor Fahad Kehar and legal representative Abdul Jafri.
Prominent lawyer Abdul Moiz Jaffery suggested that Malik’s detention may be linked to recent amendments in the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). However, the FIA has yet to provide Malik’s family with an official First Information Report (FIR) or any formal details regarding the allegations.
Jaffery revealed that Malik was initially summoned by the FIA for questioning. After being held for nearly three hours, he was officially taken into custody.
According to Raftar, FIA officials visited their office unannounced on Wednesday, allegedly intimidating staff members. The officials later directed Farhan Malik to appear at the FIA’s office on Thursday at 1 PM, where he was subsequently detained.
The circumstances surrounding Malik’s arrest remain unclear, as the FIA has not disclosed the specific charges against him. With the case now under judicial scrutiny, the coming days will determine the next course of action.
