By ABDULLAH Well-known religious scholar and YouTuber Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza has been arrested by Jhelum police under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO). Along with his arrest, authorities have also sealed his academy and locked its premises to prevent public gatherings.
Police officials confirmed that Mirza was taken into custody on the orders of Jhelum Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Meesam Abbas. He was later transferred to jail under the MPO law, which allows detention of individuals deemed a threat to public safety or order.
Authorities stated that Mirza’s arrest follows complaints filed by religious groups over alleged controversial remarks made during a recent interview that went viral on social media. The action is part of increased monitoring of religious institutions in the district.
Soon after the arrest, officials sealed and locked Mirza’s academy in Jhelum to prevent any further lectures or gatherings. Police confirmed the move was aimed at avoiding any law-and-order situation.
This is not the first time Mirza has faced legal or security challenges:
- 2020: Arrested by Jhelum police for alleged derogatory remarks against religious figures (later released on bail).
- 2021: Survived an assassination attempt during a lecture when he was stabbed by an assailant.
- 2024: Included among 17 clerics whose speeches were temporarily banned during Muharram to prevent sectarian unrest.
Mirza, a resident of Jhelum’s Machine Mohallah, has built a massive online presence with over 3.1 million YouTube subscribers and more than 2,400 uploaded lectures. His influence on social media has made him a significant religious voice in Pakistan, often sparking debates.
Police sources confirmed that Mirza has been detained for 30 days under the MPO ordinance. His supporters and critics alike are closely watching the case, with many debates already unfolding across social media platforms.