U.S. Embassy Condemns Murder of Journalist Syed Saleem Shahzad

Islamabad (PPI) - The United States Embassy in Pakistan strongly condemned the abduction and murder of reporter Syed Saleem Shahzad. “ We extend our condolences to his family and friends,” a US embassy release said Wednesday.

This atrocity is an affront against Pakistan’s free press and democratic institutions. Shahzad’s reporting on terrorism and intelligence issues brought to light the threat extremism poses to Pakistan’s peace and stability. We deeply admire his commitment to following the truth wherever it led him, in accordance with the highest principles of his profession.

“We urge a full and transparent investigation. The culprits of this heinous crime must be brought to justice.

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, since the slaying of Daniel Pearl in 2002 “at least 15 other journalists have lost their lives in intentionally targeted killings in Pakistan.” The United States stands in solidarity with the journalists of Pakistan. A free and open press is the best guarantee of the freedom and security of the Pakistani people.