Renowned Pakistani journalist and political commentator, Imran Riaz Khan, has been released from detention, returning home unharmed after a four-month absence. This welcome development was officially confirmed by Sialkot police and his legal representative early on Monday.
Imran Riaz Khan, a vocal advocate of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, had not made any public appearances since May. However, on September 25, 2023, he reemerged, marking his safe return, following a Lahore High Court directive to the Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) to make a final effort to locate the missing anchorperson.
Imran Riaz, widely recognized as a prominent YouTuber with millions of followers, was taken into custody shortly after violent protests erupted across Pakistan following the arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan. Plainclothes officials apprehended him and transferred him to Cantt police station.
Sialkot police shared a reassuring social media post that read, “Journalist and anchor, Mr. Imran Riaz Khan, has been successfully located and is now reunited with his family.”
Previously, an FIR had been registered concerning his alleged disappearance under Section 365 of the Pakistan Penal Code.
Imran Riaz Khan has remained in the public eye on social and digital media platforms since 2020, known for his fearless and candid analysis and reporting that has garnered a substantial following.
Critically, opinions regarding Imran Riaz Khan’s impartiality and integrity vary. Some staunchly praise his professional and unbiased approach, while others, including some senior journalists and critics, argue that he exhibits a noticeable bias towards Imran Khan and the PTI.
