Two Pakistani journalists were held in Kandahar and later released by the Taliban.
According to details, two journalists associated with Khyber News – reporter Matin Khan and cameraperson Muhammad Ali – were detained by the Taliban. It is unclear how long they were held, but they were released on August 27.
According to Jabbar Shah, Quetta bureau chief for Khyber News, the journalists were detained by Taliban “in confusion” in the current chaotic situation in Afghanistan.
Khyber News Chief Controller News Mubarak Ali told Pakistan Press Foundation that the Taliban released both the journalists after completing their investigation on August 27. He told PPF that the two had been sent for reporting in Kandahar on a visit visa, adding that people from Chaman and Kandahar could move without any visa requirements.
Chaman Press Club President Noor Zaman, who helped facilitate the release of the journalists, said he had “two-liner” information about the detention of Khyber News journalists. He said he received a message saying the journalists were being interrogated. Zaman then contacted Taliban Commander Abdullah Mujahid and Kandahar Information Minister Malik Muhammad to resolve the matter. Zaman said the journalists were released by the Taliban after completing their initial inquiry.
Pakistan Press Foundation expressed alarm over the detention of the two Pakistani journalists. “We urge the Taliban to ensure the safety of the media covering developments in Afghanistan.”
In a statement, the PPF also encouraged media houses in Pakistan sending reporters for coverage in Afghanistan to ensure they were provided with the necessary permissions, training and safety equipment before being sent on assignment.
