Imran Khan Detained on US Flight over Anti-Drone Activism

[xchrom]

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/10/27


This file photo shows Pakistani politician Imran Khan addressing a rally in Tank, on October 7. (Agence-France Presse)

Pakistan's anti-drone politician and former cricket-star, Imran Khan, was taken off an international flight from Toronto to New York for questioning over his political views, and his critical stance on US foreign policy, immigration officials have confirmed.


"I was taken off from plane and interrogated by US Immigration in Canada on my views on drones. My stance is known. Drone attacks must stop," Khan tweeted yesterday after his questioning.

Ali Zaidi, an official in Khan's party demanded "a prompt and thorough inquiry into this sordid episode" and "an unconditional apology from the US government".

Khan was on his way from a public lecture in Toronto to a fundraising event in New York. He was eventually released and allowed in the US. He added: "Missed flight and sad to miss the fundraising lunch in NY but nothing will change my stance."

[intaglio]

1. I would guess someone in immigration will catch sh*# over this

Because it was the best way to antagonise not just the Pakistanis but also many British, Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders and South Africans; even the Indians will be unhappy at this. Imran is well respected and loved for his sporting achievements and his political outlook.

[malaise]

2. WTF???? n/t