FIR Registered Over Alleged Abduction of PTI Activist Sanam Javed

A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered in Peshawar following the alleged abduction of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activist Sanam Javed, who reportedly went missing late Monday night, according to police and party officials.

The FIR was filed by Advocate Hira Babar, a close associate of the PTI worker, at the East (Sharqi) Police Station. According to the complaint, five unidentified men intercepted Javed’s car near the Civil Officers Colony in Peshawar Cantonment, forcibly removed her from the vehicle, and drove away in another car.

“The men were armed and wearing plain clothes,” the FIR stated, adding that they did not identify themselves or provide any reason for the abduction. The incident reportedly occurred as Javed and her friend were returning from dinner.

Police Launch Investigation

Following the registration of the FIR, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur directed the police to conduct a “transparent and swift investigation” into the incident.

According to a statement released by the KP Police, search operations have been launched in several parts of Peshawar, while checkpoints have been set up on major routes leading out of the city. Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to trace the suspects.

“We are treating this case with utmost urgency,” a senior police officer told local media. “All angles are being examined, and efforts are underway to ensure her safe recovery.”

So far, no arrests have been made, and officials have declined to speculate on possible motives or suspects. Javed’s whereabouts remain unknown as of Tuesday morning.

Political Reaction

The alleged abduction has drawn strong condemnation from PTI leaders and supporters across the country. PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram called the incident “deeply alarming” and part of a “continued campaign to silence opposition voices.”

“If the state cannot protect women who are peacefully exercising their political rights, it raises serious concerns about democracy and human rights in Pakistan,” he said in a statement.

PTI members also held a protest outside the Peshawar Press Club, demanding Javed’s immediate recovery and accountability for those responsible. Supporters carried placards reading “Bring Sanam Back” and “Stop Targeting Political Workers.”

Background on Sanam Javed

Sanam Javed, a prominent social media activist and PTI member, has been arrested multiple times since 2023 in connection with protests and political rallies. She gained attention for her outspoken criticism of government policies and her vocal defense of PTI leadership, particularly after the events following May 9, 2023.

Earlier this year, Javed was released on bail after facing charges under public order laws in Lahore. Since then, she has remained active in party activities and women’s political mobilization efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Wider Concerns Over Political Crackdown

The incident has reignited debate over the treatment of opposition members and activists in Pakistan. Human rights groups have expressed concern over what they describe as a pattern of intimidation, enforced disappearances, and politically motivated arrests.

“If Sanam Javed has been detained by any law enforcement agency, her family must be informed, and she should be presented before a court,” said a local human rights advocate in Peshawar. “Secret detentions are unacceptable in a constitutional democracy.”

Current Status

Police say the investigation is ongoing, and all possible leads are being pursued. CM Gandapur has assured that “those found guilty will face strict legal action.”

As of now, however, there has been no confirmation of Javed’s recovery, and PTI officials have vowed to intensify protests if authorities fail to provide answers in the coming days.