Former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) provincial minister Shaukat Yousafzai has been barred from leaving Pakistan and detained by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) at the Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar on Wednesday. According to sources, Yousafzai was apprehended by FIA officials as he attempted to board a private airline flight bound for Dubai. The reasons for his detention remain unclear, and the FIA is currently questioning him.

In a video statement released shortly after the incident, Yousafzai expressed dismay over his sudden detainment. He stated that he was scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and had received all necessary clearances, including a boarding pass. "I was stopped at Bacha Khan Airport. It is not known why and who has detained me," Yousafzai said in the video. "My boarding pass has also been taken away. My name is neither in ECL nor there is any FIR against me. I have always respected institutions in my politics."

Yousafzai's detention has sparked concern among PTI supporters, who are demanding an explanation from the FIA. The agency has yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter. The PTI has called for Yousafzai's immediate release and has assured its support for him during this challenging time. The party has also demanded a clear explanation from the FIA for the sudden detention of their former minister.

 
Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)