IHC Suspends Physical Remand of Journalist Matiullah Jan in Anti-Terrorism, Narcotics Case

IHC Suspends Physical Remand of Journalist Matiullah Jan in Anti-Terrorism, Narcotics Case

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Friday suspended the physical remand of senior journalist Matiullah Jan in a case involving anti-terrorism and narcotics charges. The case was registered at Margalla Police Station in the federal capital.

The verdict was announced by a two-member bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir. The court was hearing a petition challenging Jan’s two-day physical remand, which had been granted by an anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Thursday.

The development follows Jan’s arrest on Thursday by Islamabad Police at the E-9 checkpoint. Authorities accused the journalist of assaulting police officers, forcibly seizing their weapons, issuing threats, and driving under the influence of drugs. Police claimed to have recovered the narcotic substance “ice” from his vehicle.

The First Information Report (FIR) against Jan includes charges under several sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including:

  • Section 279: Rash driving on a public way
  • Section 353: Assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from performing their duty
  • Section 382: Theft involving preparation to cause harm or restraint
  • Section 427: Mischief causing damage
  • Section 506: Criminal intimidation
    Additionally, the FIR cites Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) and a narcotics-related section.

During Friday’s hearing, Jan’s legal team, including advocates Imaan Zainab Mazari-Haazir, Hadi Ali Chattha, and IHC Bar Association President Riasat Ali Azad, appeared before the court. Advocate Azad argued that the FIR did not reference any evidence of buying or selling narcotics.

The court accepted the plea, stating that Jan should now be considered under judicial remand. Further proceedings in the case are expected as the investigation continues.