Haider Saeed, known online as “804,” taken into custody near Adiala Jail following video of former prime minister’s night-time transfer to PIMS for eye treatment, fuelling PTI claims of information blackout.
Activist Arrested Over Imran Khan Convoy Footage:
A prominent PTI social media activist and YouTuber was detained late Monday night after recording footage of the high-security convoy transporting Imran Khan back to Adiala Jail from Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital in Islamabad, where the former prime minister received follow-up eye treatment.
The arrest of Haider Saeed-widely known in PTI circles as “804”-has intensified accusations that authorities are suppressing details about the 73-year-old leader’s health and movements, even as his party demands greater transparency amid concerns over his deteriorating vision.
Imran Khan’s Hospital Visit, Activist’s Filming, and Subsequent Arrest:
Imran Khan was quietly moved from Adiala Jail under heavy security on the night of February 23-24 for a scheduled follow-up at PIMS, where doctors administered the second dose of an anti-VEGF intravitreal injection to treat central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) in his right eye. The procedure aims to stabilise and potentially improve his severely reduced vision-reportedly down to around 15% in the affected eye.
Haider Saeed was positioned outside the hospital and later near the return route, capturing video of the convoy’s movement. The footage, which showed the tightly guarded vehicles, quickly circulated on social media. Within hours, Rawalpindi police detained Saeed in the Dahgal Naka area close to Adiala Jail. He was taken to the Adiala Police Post for questioning before being presented in court.
On February 25, a district and sessions court in Islamabad rejected a request for physical remand and ordered Saeed sent to jail on judicial remand. Reports link the action to both the filming incident and prior social media activity, including tweets alleged to incite public sentiment.
Imran Khan’s Imprisonment, Health Concerns, and Crackdown on PTI Voices:
Imran Khan has been imprisoned at Adiala Jail since his arrest in August 2023 on a string of charges his supporters dismiss as politically motivated. He faces convictions in the cypher case, Toshakhana reference and Al-Qadir Trust matter, among more than 180 cases nationwide. His health became a flashpoint last month when CRVO was diagnosed, prompting family and PTI demands for treatment at a private facility with family access.
The February 24 transfer was the second known hospital visit for the injection series. PTI leaders have repeatedly criticised the government for conducting movements at night without prior notice to family or legal team, describing it as unnecessary secrecy. The party argues such measures fuel speculation about Khan’s true condition and limit independent verification.
Saeed’s detention fits a wider pattern of pressure on PTI social media voices since Khan’s imprisonment. Activists sharing updates on his health or legal battles have faced frequent arrests, often under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) for alleged incitement or anti-state content.