IFJ Welcomes Arrest of Suspect in Murder of Pakistani Journalist

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joins its affiliate, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), in welcoming the arrest of former provincial minister Altaf Unar as a suspect in the 2006 murder of KTN cameraman Munir Sangi.

Sangi was shot dead on May 29, 2006, while reporting on a gunfight between feuding members of the Unar and Abro tribes in the town of Larkana, in Sindh province.

Sangi’s family suspected the involvement of Unar in Sangi’s death. The PFUJ maintains its call for the case to be conducted fairly, but is concerned that Sangi’s widow and family be provided with protection as they reportedly have been subjected to intimidation.
 
“We only want justice to be done with Sangi's family, and those responsible must be punished," the PFUJ said in a statement.

The IFJ said the arrest of Unar was an encouraging sign for improving journalists’ safety and protection and sent a clear message to the perpetrators of crimes against journalists that the law would bring them to justice, regardless of the position or authority of suspects.
 
“The arrest of Altaf Unar is a positive step in ending the culture of impunity and encouraging a stronger and independent law enforcement system in Pakistan,” said IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park.

“As the case unfolds, however, the IFJ calls on local authorities to ensure that Munir Sangi’s family remain unharmed and free from intimidation.”
The IFJ also joined the PFUJ in demanding that authorities properly investigate all murders of journalists and media workers in Pakistan, including Khadim Hussain Sheikh and Chisti Mujahid, who were both killed this year.

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

The IFJ represents over 600,000 journalists in 120 countries