Afghan Journalist Saem Naeemi Detained by Pakistani Police Amidst Political Pressures

The Afghan Media Support Organization announced on Wednesday, January 13, that Saem Naeemi, an Afghan journalist, has been arrested by Pakistani police.

The organization stated that Naeemi was detained while carrying an official letter from the French Embassy and was subsequently transferred to Haji Camp.

According to the statement, this action by Pakistani police constitutes a clear violation of human rights, principles of refugee protection, and freedom of expression.

The organization noted that Naeemi was forced to leave Afghanistan due to security threats, censorship, and political pressure, and that if forcibly returned, he would face life-threatening risks.

The organization called on the United Nations, the French government, and international bodies to take immediate action for his release and to prevent his forced return to Afghanistan.

They also urged the acceleration of the process for transferring Afghan journalists from Pakistan to third countries.

Pakistan, following its suspension of visa renewals for Afghan refugees, has been regularly detaining and deporting them.

Journalist protection organizations have warned that forcibly returning journalists to Afghanistan exposes them to serious threats from the Taliban.