The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) report on the violent events of May 9 was submitted to the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on Friday, implicating the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership in inciting public unrest.
According to the investigation, PTI leaders, including Asad Umar, Azam Swati, and Hafiz Farhat, played key roles in provoking violence, as reported by Express News. The findings hold them responsible for the chaos and recommend accountability.
During the court session in Lahore, ATC Judge Arshad Javed questioned the defense counsel on their previous request for extended investigation time and their current stance of delaying arguments. The hearing was adjourned to January 14 for the defense to present its case.
Progress in Other May 9 Cases
The ATC in Lahore also made headway in five related cases, including the attack on Jinnah House and the arson at Shadman Police Station. An investigation officer declared several accused, including Jamshed Iqbal Cheema and Musarrat Jamshed Cheema, guilty in four of these cases. Their interim bail expired, and the findings were submitted to Judge Manzoor Ali Gill for further proceedings.
Key Indictments
Earlier this week, former Prime Minister Imran Khan and over 100 PTI leaders were formally indicted by an ATC in Rawalpindi for the attack on the General Headquarters (GHQ) following Khan’s arrest on May 9, 2023. In Lahore, PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi and others were also charged in connection with violent incidents on the same day.
The proceedings in Rawalpindi were held at Adiala Jail, overseen by Judge Syed Amjad Ali Shah. The accused, including prominent figures such as Omar Ayub, Sheikh Rashid, Sadaqat Abbasi, Raja Basharat, and Zartaj Gul, faced serious charges, including rebellion, criminal conspiracy, terrorism, attempted murder, and vandalism. All denied the allegations.
Special Public Prosecutor Zaheer Shah presented the charge sheet, asserting that the violent protests aimed to pressure the government and constituted acts of terrorism. The court dismissed a jurisdiction challenge filed by Imran Khan and adjourned proceedings to December 10, instructing the prosecution to submit evidence.
