Families Demand Action After Disappearance of Afghan Filmmaker and Media Activist in Pakistan

It has been two months since Afghan filmmaker Hamid Ehsas and media activist Syed Qasem Hashimi disappeared in Pakistan. Their families are calling for assistance from security and human rights organizations.

Disappearance of Two Afghans in Pakistan

Two months have passed since the disappearance of Hamid Ehsas, a filmmaker, and Syed Qasem Hashimi, a media activist, in Pakistan. The families of these two artists are reporting that despite approaching the police and various organizations, they have received no information about their fate.

Ozlem Ehsas, the wife of Hamid Ehsas, described the last moments before her husband’s disappearance: “They left home on July 4 to buy camera lenses, and my call with Hamid was cut off at 8:30 PM. After that, we contacted the court and filed a report with the police, but unfortunately, we have not received any results.” After the call was disconnected, the families began their search for clues, but these efforts have so far been fruitless.

Residency Challenges and Lack of Information

The families also pointed to issues with residency and lack of valid documentation as obstacles in pursuing the case. Syed Hashim Hashimi, brother of Syed Qasem, told Radio Azadi: “We have repeatedly approached security agencies and the High Court, but found no leads. Along with residency issues, the Pakistani government is also not granting visas to any Afghans, complicating the pursuit of the case further.”

Concerns Among Media Activists Following the Disappearances

This incident has raised widespread concerns among Afghan media activists and YouTubers in Pakistan. An Afghan YouTuber, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed worry that, “This disappearance has not only alarmed the families and friends of the two, but it has also unsettled all media figures in Pakistan.”

Families’ Appeal to Authorities

In a statement released on August 9, 2026, the families called for an immediate and transparent investigation to locate their loved ones. They have also urged the media and human rights organizations to help clarify the fate of these two filmmakers.

The majority of Afghan media activists who sought refuge in Pakistan under Taliban rule are currently facing security and legal challenges. The disappearance of Hamid Ehsas and Syed Qasem Hashimi has heightened fears and anxiety among these individuals.

As of the writing of this report, Pakistani authorities have not provided clear information regarding the fate of the two YouTubers, and the families continue to await answers.