Major (retd) Adil Raja, a social media activist and YouTuber, has been released on police bail after being arrested by counter-terrorism police in the United Kingdom on suspicion of promoting terrorist acts within Pakistan, his lawyer revealed on Wednesday.
Adil Raja’s lawyer, Mahtab Aziz, told Geo News and a press conference that his client had been released after being arrested at his house and detained at a police station in connection with complaints lodged by Pakistani authorities with UK officials. He was released when police questioned him.
According to a police source, the investigation is ongoing and no further information will be released at this time.
“In Pakistan, a serious terrorism-related warrant was issued against him. Such allegations are very serious. I came to know on Tuesday that he has been arrested by the police. In the manner Adil Raja has been arrested, I believe it falls under anti-terrorism laws. This doesn’t mean he’s guilty of terrorism but this means the UK had to act against Adil Raja based on information and intelligence they received (from Pakistan),” Aziz said.
Under the anti-terrorism laws, he further said, the UK police have to act if they get intelligence. He said the police take away all gadgets when they conduct a raid in such cases.
“I tried all his numbers but they were not working. He [Raja] has been released but there are certain conditions on social media use, even in some cases mobile phone use is banned,” the lawyer added.
Also Read: Adil Farooq Raja, a retired Pakistan Army major, was apprehended in the United Kingdom
According to the lawyer, Raja was not involved in terrorism encouragement or anything illegal.
According to a diplomatic source, Raja was apprehended by counter-terrorism police following reports from Pakistani officials.
Raja, who was released on police bail, stated that he is fine and will continue his peaceful campaign. After the May 9 strikes on the Pakistan Army, YouTube and Facebook shut down Raja’s channels. According to sources, Pakistan lodged many complaints with media conglomerates and UK authorities regarding Raja’s controversial writings. A lawyer confirms that anti-terrorism police are involved. use of social media at the centre of whole saga
Raja tweeted on Wednesday afternoon informing that he was well and will continue his peaceful struggle. He did not mention anything about his arrest or release.
Adil Raja said: “There have been many rumours about me and my welfare. Alhamdullilah, I am well. I remain fully committed to raising a voice against fascism and for democracy in Pakistan. I will continue to advocate people’s democratic right to peaceful protest as the only way to bring about real change. A sea of peaceful protesters can achieve the change, which violent protest cannot as violence can only be counterproductive. The only way forward for Pakistan to bring political and economic stability, which every Pakistani, regardless of political affiliation desires, is through free and fair elections and ‘uninterrupted’ democracy. All institutions working ‘within their powers’, as mandated by the constitution, are vital for the success of Pakistan. Criticism of individuals should never be allowed to undermine the institutions. I am humbled by all the prayers, concerns, and good wishes sent my way. My thoughts and prayers are always with each and every Pakistani who wants a better and peaceful future in our beautiful land.”
However, his lawyer and a security source told that Raja has been released on bail while police investigations continue into the complaints.
