Once again, journalists and independent media outlets in Afghanistan have become targets of direct pressure and intimidation by the Taliban intelligence forces.
According to credible reports, Ahmad Javid Niazi, the owner of Peygard News Agency and a senior member of the Afghanistan Free Journalists Union, was arrested in Kabul on Tuesday, May 4, by Taliban intelligence.
Informed sources in Kabul told Kabul Times News Agency that Taliban intelligence forces raided Mr. Niazi’s office on Tuesday evening. After searching the premises, they reportedly detained Mr. Niazi and seized his media equipment and professional materials.
Four days after the incident, there is still no information available regarding his fate, health condition, or place of detention. This has significantly increased concerns among his family, colleagues, and journalist organizations.
This incident is deeply regrettable, alarming, and strongly condemnable, reflecting the increasing repression of freedom of expression and the shrinking space for independent media in Afghanistan.
Kabul Times News Agency strongly condemns this act and urges national and international human rights organizations, press freedom institutions, and media watchdogs to take immediate and serious action regarding the safety of journalists in Afghanistan.
Urgent Demands:
* The immediate and unconditional release of Ahmad Javid Niazi
* Transparent information regarding his whereabouts and health condition
* The return of confiscated media equipment and materials
* An end to the arrest, harassment, and intimidation of journalists
* Ensuring the safety and protection of journalists and media workers across Afghanistan
Journalism is not a crime!