Canadian Researcher’s Disappearance in Lahore Triggers Investigation

Canadian doctoral researcher Hamza Ahmad Khan, who arrived in Pakistan earlier this month for academic work, was reported missing on February 19 after leaving his residence in the city’s Defence Housing Authority area late at night. Police registered a kidnapping case against unidentified persons after his friend filed a First Information Report (FIR, police complaint) alleging he had not returned home.

The case drew attention from human rights groups and activists, who urged authorities to locate him and ensure his safe return. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed “grave concern” over the reported disappearance of the Canadian national.

Subsequently, it was revealed that Hamza Ahmad Khan had been taken into custody by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) over alleged social media posts targeting state institutions. He was produced before a magistrate and ordered held on a 14-day judicial remand as investigations continue under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act.

Authorities are continuing inquiries into both his disappearance and the online material cited in the cybercrime case, and the situation remains under close observation by local and international observers.

Noor Munawar

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