Islamabad, Pakistan: The Islamabad Crime Reporters Association (ICRA) strongly condemns the brutal assault on Tahir Naseer, a reporter of Dawn TV, by Islamabad police during coverage of the PTI Protest in Islamabad.
In a statement, ICRA demands an immediate investigation into the incident and stern action against those responsible. According to Tahir Naseer, police demanded his press card, which he provided, but the official didn’t return his wallet later on, questioning this. He was slapped by a Sub-Inspector and beaten with a shovel.
Police also attempted to snatch Naseer’s mobile phone. ICRA President Qamar ul Munawar urged Islamabad’s Inspector General to:
1. Suspend involved police personnel immediately.
2. Ensure transparent investigations.
3. Protect journalists’ rights.
“Journalists should not face intimidation or violence while performing duties,” Munawar stated.