Karachi: (Pakistan Press Foundation) Irfan Sangi, a cameraman from Time News, and Bashir Mirjat, a reporter from Dharti TV, were attacked and tortured by Karachi Police while covering a protest at Teen Talwar, Karach on July 19. The protest was organized to demand justice for Priya Kumari, a young girl who went missing three years ago on the day of Ashura.

The confrontation escalated when police attempted to disperse the protestors using batons. As the protestors resisted, the situation intensified, leading to clashes between the police and demonstrators. During this chaos, several protesters, including Sangi and Mirjat, were caught in the crossfire and injured.

Bashir Mirjat recounted the incident to the Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF), stating that Sangi and himself were merely exercising their Constitutionally guaranteed rights to cover the protest. Despite this, the police intervened and subsequently tortured them.

The South Zone police spokesperson addressed the incident, stating that an initial probe revealed that four policemen were responsible for the misbehavior with journalists and were subsequently suspended by the South Senior Superintendent of Police. An inquiry has been initiated for further legal action. “We condemn torture against the journalists, and no one would be allowed to misuse powers,” the statement said, adding that all legal requirements would be fulfilled and departmental action would be taken against the suspended officers. As the situation deteriorated further on Friday night, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar arrived and held successful talks with the protest organizers.

Managing Director of Dharti TV, GM Jamali, condemned the police’s actions, stating that the torture of journalists is intolerable.

President of the Karachi Union of Journalists, Faheem Siddiqui, stressed the importance of journalists carrying their identification and press membership cards to avoid such incidents. The Association of Court Reporters Karachi also condemned the police’s actions, calling for immediate suspension and a transparent inquiry into the officers involved.