By Fazal Amin Shinwari
LANDIKOTAL: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has disbursed a compensation amount of Rs 5 million to the family of martyred journalist Jibran Khalil, who was gunned down by unidentified assailants in Landikotal on June 19, 2024.
Jibran Khalil, a former president of the Landikotal Press Club and correspondent for a local television channel, was known for his fearless reporting and commitment to truth. His assassination sent shockwaves through the journalist community, drawing widespread condemnation and demands for justice.
In a significant move, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Transport and Infrastructure, MPA Sohil Afridi, facilitated the disbursement of the financial assistance. According to officials, the government had earlier released an initial amount of Rs 1 million. The remaining Rs 4 million was handed over to the deceased’s family this week in an official ceremony held in Landikotal.
The event was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Khyber, Arshad Khan; Sohil Afridi’s representative and youth leader, Shafiq Afridi; and senior journalist Waheedullah Afridi from the District Press Club Khyber.
Speaking on the occasion, media representatives paid rich tributes to Jibran Khalil’s journalistic integrity and courage. “He was a beacon of truth who laid down his life in the line of duty. His sacrifice will continue to inspire generations of journalists,” said Aman Shinwari, President of the District Press Club Khyber.
General Secretary of the club, Hijrat Ali Afridi, also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Sahib Afridi for honouring the martyred journalist’s legacy and standing with his family in their time of need.
The journalist community in Khyber has reiterated its demand for a thorough investigation into Jibran Khalil’s killing and called on the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
