A Lahore court on Friday issued non-bailable arrest warrants for PTI founder Imran Khan and Senate opposition leader Shibli Faraz in connection with an alleged attack on Islamabad police personnel outside Khan’s Zaman Park residence. The case, registered at Lahore’s Race Course police station, followed violent clashes between PTI supporters and law enforcement during protests last year. Imran Khan, deposed as prime minister in April 2022, has been incarcerated since August 2023 and faces multiple charges, including corruption and terrorism.
Legal Proceedings and Jail Summons
During the hearing at Lahore’s Cantt Kutchery, the court ordered that Khan be summoned through jail authorities, as he is currently imprisoned in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. The proceedings were adjourned until July 30. The case adds to the growing list of legal troubles for the former premier, who has consistently denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated.
May 9 Riots: PTI Leaders Sentenced
The development follows recent convictions of senior PTI leaders in connection with the May 9, 2023, riots. An anti-terrorism court (ATC) sentenced Dr. Yasmin Rashid, Mian Mehmood ur Rasheed, and others to 10 years in prison. Former Punjab governor Omar Sarfraz Cheema, PTI Senator Ejaz Chaudhry, and Afzal Azeem Pahat also received sentences, while Shah Mahmood Qureshi and others were acquitted.
Wider Crackdown on PTI
In a separate ruling, an ATC in Sargodha handed 10-year prison terms to Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Ahmed Khan Bachar and MNA Mohammad Ahmed Chattha for vandalism linked to the May 9 unrest. The convictions highlight the ongoing legal crackdown on PTI leadership following last year’s violent protests, which erupted after Imran Khan’s arrest. As legal battles intensify, political tensions in Pakistan remain high