Tensions flared in the federal capital after Islamabad police stormed the National Press Club (NPC), vandalized property, and allegedly assaulted journalists, triggering outrage from the journalist community and strong reactions from government officials.
According to witnesses, police entered the cafeteria of the press club and beat several journalists. Furniture and cameras were also damaged during the raid.
President of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Afzal Butt, strongly condemned the incident, saying police had never before entered the press club, even during difficult times.
“This behavior is intolerable. The administration has always cooperated with the police, but in return, we faced violence,” he said, adding that journalists and staff were deliberately targeted.
National Press Club Secretary Nayyar Ali said police are required to seek permission before entering the premises. He demanded strict action against those responsible, stressing that employees were also subjected to violence.
