The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) strongly condemns the targeted killing of Mohammad Ibrahim, a reporter with Express TV on May 21.

According to reports received from an IFJ affiliate, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Ibrahim was returning from an interview with a spokesman for the Tehreek-e-Taliban militant group when he was sprayed with automatic gunfire by unidentified assailants on motorcycle in the Bajaur area of Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).

Ibrahim was the general secretary of the Bajaur unit of the Tribal Union of Journalists. He is the fourth journalist from Pakistan to be killed so far this year and the eleventh since the beginning of 2007.

“We join the PFUJ in calling for an immediate investigation into Ibrahim’s murder,” said IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park.

“Pakistan has, over the last few years, emerged as one of the most dangerous places in the world for journalists. The culture of impunity has become ever more strongly entrenched because of the failure of the authorities to bring those responsible for the murder and harassment of journalists to book.”

The IFJ supports the PFUJ’s demand that media organisations assigning journalists in the more troubled areas such as FATA and Baluchistan, should ensure that they are trained in best safety practices and given adequate protection. The IFJ also reiterates its demand that journalists be given comprehensive insurance coverage.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Mohammad Ibrahim’s family and assure the PFUJ of our support and solidarity in its ongoing struggle”, said Park.

For further information contact IFJ Asia-Pacific on +612 9333 0919

The IFJ represents over 600,000 journalists in 120 countries