IHC seeks report in Faizan recovery case, directs his inclusion in probe

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has sought a detailed report from intelligence agencies and relevant institutions in the case of missing Faizan, while also directing that he (Faizan) be included in the investigation.In its order issued on Wednesday, the court sought a detailed report from all intelligence agencies regarding mobile numbers and vehicle tracking, remarking that all relevant institutions should submit the report within seven days.Justice Babar Sattar observed that people are being abducted, and their families are being threatened.Judge Babar Sattar was hearing a petition filed by Usman Khan for the recovery of his missing son, Faizan. The petitioner’s lawyer, Imman Mazari, state counsel, and police authorities appeared in court.During the hearing, the petitioner’s lawyer informed the court that Faizan had returned home Monday morning. The court then asked the police authorities if they had conducted any investigation, inquiring who took Faizan and where he had been.The police authorities admitted that no investigation had been conducted so far but mentioned that a video had been uploaded.Expressing displeasure over the lack of investigation, the court asked where the video had been uploaded from. The police replied that they had contacted IT experts regarding the matter.Justice Babar Sattar, expressing frustration, remarked that four days had passed without any investigation being conducted.The court then summoned the Islamabad IGP and announced a recess in the hearing.After the break, the IGP appeared before the court. Justice Babar Sattar asked whether there was any ambiguity in the court’s previous order.The IGP replied that there was no ambiguity. He said he had contacted all intelligence agencies and written to the PTA and IB regarding the data of two mobile numbers. However, CDR analysis and internet protocol details were still pending, which had been sought from the IB and PTA.The IGP also informed the court that the SP investigating officer and SHO had visited Faizan’s father, Usman, six times since his (Faizan) return, but they had not been able to meet him. They had also contacted the agencies and held meetings with the PTA to trace an X (formerly Twitter) account.Justice Babar Sattar asked to whom the vehicles were registered and questioned the lack of progress in the investigation. He expressed doubt about the police’s ability to handle the case effectively, saying, “You expect a 17-year-old to speak the truth, but you cannot?”The IGP responded that he had met with the heads of intelligence agencies.Justice Babar Sattar emphasised that the case does not end with the return of the abducted person, adding, “People are abducted, and their family members are threatened.”The court sought a detailed report on mobile numbers and vehicle tracking from all intelligence agencies, with a submission deadline of seven days. It also directed that Faizan be included in the investigation but acknowledged his current trauma and advised that he should not be questioned immediately.The hearing was adjourned.--Online