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Faisalabad ATC Issues Arrest Warrants for PTI Leaders in May 9 Riots Case
Non-bailable arrest warrants issued for PTI leaders Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, Kanwal Shouzeb & Fawad Chaudhry over May 9 riots. Court cites failure to attend hearings.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-22
Faisalabad ATC Issues Arrest Warrants for PTI Leaders in May 9 Riots Case

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Faisalabad issued non-bailable arrest warrants on Wednesday for prominent PTI leaders Omar Ayub Khan, Shibli Faraz, Kanwal Shouzeb, and former member Fawad Chaudhry. The warrants are connected to the leaders' alleged involvement in the violent May 9 riots, which followed the brief arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan.

Case Background

The case, registered at Faisalabad’s Civil Lines Police Station, accuses PTI leaders and supporters of torching a police van outside the State Bank of Pakistan building. This act of vandalism was part of a larger wave of protests that escalated into violence, targeting state property and military installations, including the Lahore Corps Commander’s residence.

The government launched a nationwide crackdown on PTI leaders and supporters following the riots, with several arrests made. While some leaders secured bail, charges against many accused individuals are still under review in various courts.

Court Proceedings

Judge Javed Iqbal Sheikh presided over today’s hearing, issuing the arrest warrants after the accused failed to appear in court despite being summoned earlier this month. The leaders had filed pleas seeking exemption from appearing in court, but these were rejected.

The court has decided to hear the cases of Ayub, Faraz, Shouzeb, and Chaudhry separately from other accused individuals. Charges have already been framed for those attending court hearings, while absent accused persons are summoned for future proceedings.

Legal Implications

The cases filed against the PTI leaders fall under Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA). This section criminalizes activities such as providing financial support or property to facilitate terrorist acts.

The latest warrants follow similar actions by the ATC earlier this month in another case related to the May 9 riots, further intensifying the legal challenges faced by PTI leadership.

Broader Political Context

The May 9 riots have become a focal point of political and legal scrutiny in Pakistan, with the government pursuing rigorous action against those allegedly involved. The fallout from these events continues to influence the country's political landscape, adding to the ongoing tensions between PTI and the ruling coalition.
Tagged:

May9Riots

AntiTerrorismAct

PTILeaders

FaisalabadATC
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