'Fear of unknown men': Outrage after fugitive preacher Zakir Naik gets VIP security cover in Pakistan (WATCH)

First Published Oct 1, 2024, 12:37 PM IST | Last Updated Oct 1, 2024, 12:37 PM IST

In a move sparking international outrage, Pakistan has provided radical preacher and wanted terrorist Zakir Naik with the highest level of security during his state visit, raising concerns and questions worldwide. Naik, a controversial figure known for his inflammatory sermons and connections to extremist ideologies, has been shielded by extensive precautions taken by the Pakistani authorities, who claim they fear the threat of "unknown men."

Wanted for alleged money laundering charges, controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik arrived in Pakistan on Monday morning at the invitation of the Government of Pakistan, amid tight security for his lecture series at Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore.

Upon his arrival at the New Islamabad Airport, he was received by leaders from the top echelons of the Pakistan government, which included the Chairman of the Pakistan Prime Minister's Youth Program, Rana Mashhood and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Syed Atta-ur-Rehman, as reported by the Tribune.

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Sources within the Pakistani government have indicated that the unprecedented security measures were enacted due to intelligence reports warning of potential threats from unidentified individuals.

The security apparatus deployed for Naik's visit rivals that of high-ranking officials, including heavily armed escorts, advanced surveillance technology, and a large contingent of elite military personnel. These measures have drawn widespread criticism, particularly given Naik's controversial background and his fugitive status in neighboring India.