PESHAWAR, Dec 16: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) on Friday expressed concern over mysterious disappearance of North Waziristan-based journalist Hayatullah Khan and urged the government to fulfil its obligations and ensure his early and safe recovery.

According to a HRCP press release, its vice chairperson Kamran Arif advocate said that Hayatullah was reportedly picked up by armed men after he had left his house for coverage of a protest demonstration on December 6, 2005. He said surprisingly no efforts were made either for arrest of the culprits or for recovery of the journalist.

Mr Arif pointed out contradictions in the statements of high ups from civil administration and those occupying important offices in Governor House and Fata secretariat. He said the political administration of North Waziristan had never bothered about recovery of Hayatullah while officials in Peshawar claimed that administration arrested 10 persons after finding out a clue of the abducted newsmen. Such contradictions, he said, were further confusing the journalist community, he added.

Mr Arif demanded of the government to take steps, instead of hiding facts, for early recovery of the journalist and expose the elements involved in the crime.