MILITARY

Former ISI Chief Faiz Hameed Sentenced to 14 Years Rigorous Imprisonment After Military Trial

Former ISI chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed sentenced to 14 years rigorous imprisonment after FGCM finds him guilty of political interference, misuse of authority, and violating the Official Secrets Act. ISPR says he received full legal rights and may appeal.
2025-12-11
Former ISI Chief Faiz Hameed Sentenced to 14 Years Rigorous Imprisonment After Military Trial

Former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed has been sentenced to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment by a Field General Court Martial (FGCM), the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed on Thursday. The conviction marks one of the most significant accountability decisions involving a senior military officer in Pakistan’s recent history.

According to ISPR, court-martial proceedings against Hameed began on August 12, 2024, under the Pakistan Army Act, and continued for 15 months. He faced four charges: engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act, misuse of authority and government resources, and causing wrongful loss to individuals. After extensive hearings and legal scrutiny, the FGCM found him guilty on all counts. The sentence was officially promulgated on December 11, 2025.

ISPR emphasized that the proceedings were conducted strictly in accordance with legal provisions and that Hameed was provided full legal rights, including access to a defence team of his choice. The convicted officer retains the right to appeal under Section 133B of the Army Act, which allows him 40 days to file an appeal before the court of appeals headed by the army chief or his designated officers.

The military’s media wing also disclosed that Hameed’s alleged involvement in “fomenting political agitation and instability” is the subject of a separate inquiry.

Background of the Case

Hameed, who was taken into custody in August 2024, had been under investigation following allegations leveled by the owner of a private housing society. His indictment in December 2024 included accusations of political interference, violating anti-espionage laws, and abuse of authority. ISPR had earlier stated that his role in events linked to political unrest — including the incidents of May 9, 2023 — was being examined.

The May 9 protests erupted after the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan and resulted in widespread violence, including attacks on military installations. Authorities have long suggested that political and non-political actors collaborated to trigger the unrest.

Government Reaction

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the verdict was based on concrete evidence, adding that Hameed had been given every opportunity to defend himself. He linked the outcome to the Top City corruption case, claiming the former spymaster had misused his position for financial gain.

“Today, the person who crossed the red line has been punished,” Tarar stated. He further alleged that Hameed had acted as a political adviser to the PTI and played a direct role in encouraging instability.

Tarar hinted at further investigations into Hameed’s political links and actions, asserting that the army’s accountability system had demonstrated complete transparency. “This decision is a victory of truth and justice,” he added.

Additional Political Reactions

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reacted strongly to the news, remarking that the consequences of decisions taken by former generals Faiz Hameed and Qamar Javed Bajwa would be felt by the nation for years to come.

The government has also suggested that more inquiries into Hameed’s political engagement and alleged conspiracies against the state are underway.

A Historic Development

The conviction of a former ISI chief represents a major shift in Pakistan’s civil-military landscape, challenging a long-held perception that powerful intelligence officials operate beyond scrutiny. As legal proceedings continue, all eyes will be on whether Hameed files an appeal — and what additional investigations may reveal.