"I will come back soon," Journalist Imran Riaz reveals he used ‘Dunki route’ to leave Pakistan

Journalist Imran Riaz Khan has revealed that he left Pakistan through the Dunki route to reach London after his previous attempt to leave the country were foiled.

The Dunki route refers to the rough and illegal path used by many, particularly those seeking undocumented immigration to European countries.

Imran Riaz described the journey as perilous, stating that he endured life-threatening circumstances and suffered injuries while crossing through the mountains.

"People use the Dunki route to earn money abroad, but I used it to migrate in order to save my life," he said in an online interview.

Read More: "I was asked to get video shoot with two girls during captivity," Imran Riaz claims

After reaching London, Imran Riaz shared a post on X (formerly Twitter), accompanied by a photo of himself standing in the mountains at night with visible injuries on his face.

"There is a world of difference between making a deal and escaping on special planes with looted wealth, and emigrating with your life in your hands, standing firm on your position," he wrote.

He further expressed pride in his resilience against injustice, adding, "I am proud that my Lord has given me steadfastness against every injustice. I have endured the worst torture and terrible imprisonment. There have been 10 arrests and dozens of cases. I was even forcibly stopped from performing Hajj, but my Lord gave me patience. I have some important responsibilities. I will come back soon, InshaAllah 🇵🇰."

Imran Riaz also disclosed that he had been in Swat for over a year, facing persecution, potential arrests, and life threats.

Check: Journalist Imran Riaz arrested, barred from travelling for Hajj again

"Arshad Sharif also left due to life threats," he remarked, referring to the late journalist.

He credited PTI leader Qasim Khan Suri for facilitating his escape and revealed that he made three attempts to leave via the Dunki route before finally succeeding.

During the journey, he and his companion had to walk for 17 hours, surviving on just four apples and a single bottle of water.