ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Pakistani police have detained Afghan journalist Freshta Sadeed and transferred her to a detention facility, the Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization said on Tuesday, warning that “returning her to Afghanistan could have devastating consequences.”
In a statement, the AJSO, a Germany-based advocacy group for exiled journalists led by Hamid Obaidi, said Sadeed has been in custody since Monday, April 14, and is now at serious risk of deportation to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan — a country she fled due to her reporting on human rights issues.
“Journalism is not a crime,” the organization said, calling for Sadeed’s immediate release and urging Pakistani authorities to comply with international legal protections for refugees and press freedom. “We urge Pakistani authorities to release Freshta Sadeed without delay and respect international laws protecting refugees and media workers.”
The group also criticized what it described as a growing pattern of mistreatment and legal uncertainty facing Afghan journalists in Pakistan. Many fled Taliban persecution only to encounter insecurity and discrimination in third countries, the statement said.
AJSO called on the Pakistani government to clarify Sadeed’s legal status, release her immediately, and ensure that Afghan migrants are treated in accordance with international human rights standards.
The AJSO further appealed to embassies, international organizations, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to expedite the resettlement of Afghan journalists facing imminent threats.
“The safety, freedom, and dignity of Afghan journalists must rise above political calculations,” the organization said. “Concrete and urgent action is needed to protect their lives and future.”
As of Tuesday evening, Pakistani authorities had not publicly commented on the case.
