In another alarming attack on press freedom in Pakistan, Syed Tabish Kafili, a reporter affiliated with News World Media, was brutally assaulted, detained, and beaten by Karachi police officers after he began filming the aftermath of a traffic accident in North Karachi.
According to eyewitness accounts and initial reports, a high-speed dumper truck ran over several motorcycles in the North Karachi area, drawing a large crowd. While passing by, Tabish Kafili, performing his journalistic duty, began recording video footage of the chaotic scene — an act that reportedly triggered an aggressive and violent response from police officials.
Witnesses say a plainclothes officer first attempted to snatch the journalist’s mobile phone. Moments later, uniformed and plainclothes police personnel surrounded Tabish and started assaulting him physically. Despite clearly identifying himself as a journalist, he was punched, slapped, and manhandled without cause or restraint.
Tabish was then dragged into a police van and transported to Sir Syed Police Station. The physical abuse continued throughout the journey and even after arriving at the station.
The assault has drawn strong condemnation from the journalist fraternity. The Karachi Press Club, Karachi Union of Journalists, and other media bodies staged protests demanding accountability and the immediate release of their colleague. Following widespread outrage, Tabish Kafili was eventually released from custody.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori took notice of the incident and has reportedly ordered strict action against the officers involved.
This disturbing incident underscores the growing threats to journalists operating in Pakistan — a country already deemed highly dangerous for media professionals. Journalist unions and media rights organizations have demanded swift legal action against those responsible and have reiterated the urgent need for institutional protection for reporters on the ground.
