Web Desk
Karachi, Pakistan – A court in Karachi on Monday accepted the bail plea of journalist Farhan Mallick and ordered his release after the payment of a Rs100,000 surety bond.
Mallick, who was arrested on March 20, faced charges under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025 for allegedly engaging in anti-state activities.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) arrested him and presented him before the court of Judicial Magistrate-I (East), Khalique Zaman.
During the hearing, the FIA requested an extension of Mallick’s physical remand until April 3, but the court denied the request and instead sent him on a 14-day judicial remand.
The case against Mallick stems from an FIA report about his YouTube channel, which was accused of promoting anti-state videos.
The FIR includes accusations that Mallick’s content contributed to unrest and disorder.
The charges refer to Section 26A of the amended Peca laws, which criminalize the spreading of fake news.
Under this provision, individuals found guilty could face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to Rs2 million, or both.
Mallick’s release comes after a significant legal battle, with his bail conditions set at a Rs100,000 surety bond.
