Islamabad (National Times) A retired Pakistan Army serviceman has appealed to the country’s top leadership for the recovery of his missing son, alleging that members of the Awami Action Committee Paniwala were involved in his detention, mistreatment, and subsequent disappearance.
Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club in Islamabad, Muhammad Naseem Kiani, a resident of Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, said his son, Dilawar Kiani, was allegedly taken into custody by individuals associated with the Awami Action Committee on June 6.
Kiani, who said he served Pakistan and its national institutions for 41 years, claimed that when he reached the location, his son had already been subjected to physical and psychological abuse. He further alleged that both he and his son were held against their will, assaulted, and filmed, with the videos later circulated on social media.
According to Kiani, he and his son were released on June 15, but Dilawar was in poor condition. He also alleged that his son’s vehicle and cash were taken during the incident. Following their release, an online campaign was allegedly launched against the family, including threats directed at family members and inflammatory content shared on social media.
The retired serviceman claimed that on June 16, his son was called by certain individuals and taken away again. Since then, the family has been unable to establish contact with him and fears for his safety.
Speaking alongside his father, Dilawar Kiani’s brother alleged that the family was being targeted because of its support for Pakistan. He claimed that pro-Pakistan voices in the area were facing intimidation and pressure.
The family appealed to President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Field Marshal Asim Munir to ensure Dilawar Kiani’s immediate recovery, register cases against those allegedly involved, investigate the reported threats on social media, and provide security to the family.
Muhammad Naseem Kiani said that if any harm comes to his son or any member of his family, those he has named in his allegations should be held responsible.
The allegations were made during the press conference, and no response from the Awami Action Committee or relevant authorities was immediately available.
