On October 2, 2025, tensions erupted in Pakistan’s capital when Islamabad police forcibly entered the National Press Club (NPC), allegedly assaulting journalists and vandalising property, including furniture and cameras. The unprecedented raid triggered widespread condemnation from journalist organisations and prompted swift responses from government officials.
Witnesses reported that police stormed the NPC’s cafeteria, targeting journalists and staff without prior permission, a violation of protocol. The incident, described as an attack on press freedom, has intensified concerns about media harassment in Pakistan.
Afzal Butt, President of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), condemned the raid as unprecedented. “Even in challenging times, police have never entered the press club,” he said. “This violence is intolerable, and journalists were deliberately targeted,” Butt called for strict action against those responsible.
This is National Press Club Islamabad. Police entered inside the Press Club to arrest the supporters of JKJAC and targeted journalists present in the cafeteria. pic.twitter.com/fuJPeHPXGG
— Hamid Mir حامد میر (@HamidMirPAK) October 2, 2025NPC Secretary Nayyar Ali echoed this, emphasising that police must seek permission to enter the premises. He reported that employees faced violence and demanded accountability for the officers involved. In response, journalists gathered inside the NPC, declaring, “Police entry into the National Press Club is strictly prohibited,” and demanded their immediate exit.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi took swift notice, ordering a detailed report from the Inspector General of Police and launching a formal inquiry. “Violence against journalists is unacceptable,” Naqvi stated, promising disciplinary action against those responsible.
Alert 🚨
Police attack Islamabad Press Club..@ICT_Police stormed the cafeteria of the Press Club & tortured journalists with batons., journalists were dragged out of the cafeteria.
@IFJGlobal @CPJAsia @RSF_en @ICIJorg #RightsMovementAjk #اُمتِ_مسلمہ_کا_لیڈر_قید_میں pic.twitter.com/6ABmo12GSR
— Haider Ali (@Haider4PTI) October 2, 2025Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry visited the NPC to offer an unconditional apology. “Some protesters clashed with police outside and fled into the press club. Police should not have entered,” he admitted. Chaudhry stressed that freedom of expression is a government priority and assured that departmental action would be taken against the involved officers. He added, “The government will accept whatever decision journalists make after their meeting.”
