Families Demand Action as Afghan Filmmaker and Activist Remain Missing in Pakistan

It has been two months since Afghan filmmaker Hamid Ehsas and media activist Syed Qasim Hashimi disappeared in Pakistan. Their families are calling for collaboration 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 Qasim Hashimi, a media activist, in Pakistan. The families of these two artists report that despite reaching out to police and various organizations, they have not received any information regarding their whereabouts.

Ozlem Ehsas, Hamid’s wife, recounted the events leading up to his disappearance, stating: “They left home on July 4 to purchase camera lenses, and my call to Hamid was cut off at 8:30 PM. After that, we approached the court and filed a report with the police, but unfortunately, we have not received any results.” Following the lost communication, the family began their own search for clues, but these efforts have so far been fruitless.

Residential Challenges and Lack of Information

The families have also pointed to residential issues and the lack of valid documents as obstacles in their pursuit of the case. Syed Hashem Hashimi, brother of Syed Qasim, told Radio Azadi: “We have repeatedly approached security agencies and the Supreme Court, but we have found no leads. Meanwhile, due to the residential problems, the Pakistani government does not grant visas to any Afghans, complicating the follow-up process.”

Media Activists’ Reactions to the Disappearance

This incident has sparked widespread concern among Afghan media activists and YouTubers in Pakistan. An Afghan YouTuber, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed their concern: “This disappearance has not only alarmed their families and friends but has also created anxiety among all media figures in Pakistan.”

Families’ Appeals to Responsible Institutions

In a statement released on August 9, 2026, the families called for an urgent and transparent investigation to find their loved ones. They have also urged media outlets and human rights organizations to assist in clarifying the fate of these two filmmakers.

Most Afghan media activists who fled to Pakistan under Taliban rule now face security and legal challenges. The disappearances of Hamid Ehsas and Syed Qasim Hashimi have heightened fears and anxieties among this group.

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