PTI social media activist Falak Javed Khan has been arrested by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The arrest is linked to a case involving fake and edited videos of Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari.
According to PTI, she was taken into custody in Islamabad on Tuesday night. Her lawyer, Advocate Mian Ali Ashfaq, confirmed the arrest on Wednesday. He stated that the case is linked to the circulation of fake videos on social media platforms.
Lawyer Confirms Arrest
Speaking to Dawn.com, Ashfaq said his team would appear before the Lahore District Court. He explained that they will provide full legal support in Falak Javed Khan’s case. He also said that if NCCIA applies for her physical remand, the defense will strongly oppose it.
Ashfaq added that the legal team is reviewing the case from all possible angles. He emphasized that they are preparing to challenge the agency’s request for custody.
Minister’s Complaint
Punjab Minister Azma Bokhari had earlier filed a complaint about doctored videos and edited images of her being shared online. She alleged that Falak Javed Khan was directly involved in spreading those images on social media.
The minister argued that the material circulated online damaged her reputation. She also said her constitutional rights had been violated through the misuse of her photos and videos.
Last year, Bokhari submitted a petition to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) requesting that it take legal action under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). However, according to her, the FIA did not act on her request at that time.
Court Proceedings
The case has now been transferred to the NCCIA for investigation. The court will hear the matter in Lahore. Ashfaq stated that the defense is ready to argue against the physical remand request. He also emphasized that the case will be thoroughly examined to ensure all legal rights are fully protected.
The NCCIA has not yet issued an official statement about the arrest or the charges. However, the agency is expected to present its case in court during the upcoming hearing.
Background of the Case
Azma Bokhari has consistently maintained that false and manipulated content has been used to target her politically. She called the circulation of such videos an attempt to damage her public image.
In her petition, she requested the court to order the FIA to investigate and submit a compliance report. She also stressed that those responsible should face legal consequences under the law.
PTI’s Reaction
The PTI has condemned the arrest. Party members allege that it is part of a broader campaign to silence activists. They argue that Falak Javed Khan was targeted due to her political affiliation and social media activity.
PTI supporters claim that arrests like these are an effort to control political expression online. They are demanding her immediate release.
The court will now decide whether to grant NCCIA custody of Falak Javed Khan or to release her on the grounds of law. Her lawyer remains confident that the defense has a strong case.
The outcome will depend on the evidence presented and the court’s view on the charges. The case highlights the growing role of cybercrime laws in political disputes.
The arrest of PTI activist Falak Javed Khan has drawn attention to online defamation cases and the use of cybercrime laws in Pakistan. The legal battle is set to continue in the Lahore District Court, where both sides will present their arguments.
