Pakistani YouTuber Arrested for Inciting ‘Religious Hatred’ and ‘Defaming Institutions’
LAHORE: Orya Maqbool Jan, a prominent Pakistani YouTuber and vocal critic of the military, was arrested in Punjab province on Thursday. The arrest, executed by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) cybercrime wing, is part of a crackdown on social media personalities accused of inciting religious hatred and defaming institutions.
Jan, known for his commentary on political and social issues, was taken into custody following a raid at his Lahore residence. Authorities allege that he used his platform to incite religious discord and target important personalities and institutions, including the military.
This arrest comes just a week after a similar incident involving another YouTuber and comedian, who was allegedly abducted by intelligence agencies for his criticism of the Shehbaz Sharif-led government.
Orya Maqbool Jan, who has amassed over a million subscribers on his YouTube channel, is a well-known columnist, poet, playwright, and former civil servant. He was previously detained by intelligence agencies last year for his outspoken criticism of the military’s involvement in politics and his support for the imprisoned former prime minister, Imran Khan.
