Azhar Mashwani, a prominent member of Pakistan's political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), announced on Friday through his Twitter account that he had safely returned home, more than a week after his sudden disappearance. Mashwani expressed his gratitude towards those who prayed for him and provided support during his eight-day absence, adding that he hoped other "captive workers" would also return home soon and reunite with their families.
Fawad Chaudhry, PTI Senior Vice President, confirmed to Dawn.com that Mashwani had returned home. This came after the Lahore High Court ordered the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to recover and produce Mashwani in court on April 3, following a habeas corpus petition filed by Mazharul Hassan, Mashwani's brother.
PTI's Insaf Youth Wing had called for a countrywide protest for Mashwani's immediate release and production in court. Mashwani was taken into custody last week on charges of criticizing the Punjab police and the caretaker government for allegedly using high-handed tactics against party workers.
Mashwani's arrest had prompted PTI chief Imran Khan to denounce the authorities for abducting the party activist, saying "enough is enough." On March 26, a sessions court had issued notices to the Lahore police chief on a petition seeking the registration of a case over the alleged abduction of Mashwani. The city police had registered a case against unidentified persons for kidnapping the PTI activist.
According to Mashwani's brother, some unidentified people had kidnapped him and taken him to an undisclosed location, causing his family and friends to worry about his safety. However, Mashwani's return home has put an end to their anxiety.
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