‘I fear they will kill me for talking’: The Pakistani poet abducted for his activism

Ahmad Farhad's abduction sent ripples across Pakistan. After being released on bail, he insists on telling his story

It was late at night in Islamabad and Ahmad Farhad was returning from a quick trip to the shops when someone walked up behind him. Don't be scared, don't scream and come with us," the figure, dressed in civilian clothes, whispered discreetly into his ear.

Still clutching bread, eggs and jam intended for the next morning's breakfast, Farhad went to the car without a sound. With a sinking feeling the poet recognised the vehicle, with its blacked-out windows, as one known to be used by shadowy military agencies in Pakistan for abductions.