The Taliban authorities in Kabul have reportedly arrested Afghan local journalist Abdul Haq Hamidi and his friend Jawid Rassoli. The arrest took place at 10:30 AM on Thursday 01-18-2023, raising questions about press freedom and the safety of journalists in the region.
Background: Abdul Haq Hamidi is a well-known local journalist who has been actively covering events and issues in Afghanistan. His commitment to reporting on various aspects of Afghan society has earned him recognition and respect. Jawid Rassoli is identified as a friend of Hamidi, and both individuals are now at the center of a controversial arrest by the Taliban’s Intelligence office, known as the GDI.
Details of the Arrest: The arrest of Abdul Haq Hamidi and Jawid Rassoli occurred in Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan. Sources indicate that the Taliban’s Intelligence office, the GDI, conducted the arrest at 10:30 AM on Thursday. The circumstances surrounding the arrest remain unclear, and the reasons behind the detention of these individuals are yet to be officially disclosed.
Concerns for Press Freedom: The arrest of a prominent local journalist like Abdul Haq Hamidi raises serious concerns about the state of press freedom in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime. Journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and holding those in power accountable. The arrest sends a chilling message to media professionals and adds to the growing apprehension about the future of journalism in the country.