Maps
Magazine

LEGAL

Lahore ATCs Expedite May 9 Riot Trials Following Supreme Court Deadline
Lahore ATCs ramp up May 9 riot trials to 4 days a week after SC orders swift disposal. Jail trials include Jinnah House attack; military courts have sentenced 60 PTI workers.
ND
by News Desk
2025-05-14
Lahore ATCs Expedite May 9 Riot Trials Following Supreme Court Deadline

The anti-terrorism courts (ATCs) in Lahore have intensified proceedings of the May 9, 2023, riot cases following a directive from the Supreme Court of Pakistan to conclude the trials within four months. The development marks a significant shift in the judicial approach to the politically charged cases involving Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers.

These cases are linked to violent protests that erupted after the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, which led to attacks on key army installations including the historic Jinnah House.

To meet the Supreme Court’s deadline, the Lahore High Court registrar has released an amended schedule for the trials, which are being held inside Kot Lakhpat Jail for security reasons. Previously held three days a week, the jail trials will now be conducted on four days — Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

Currently, 14 high-profile cases are being heard within the prison premises, including the Jinnah House vandalism case.

Separately, the Pakistan Army had earlier announced the conviction of 60 PTI workers by the Field General Court Martial (FGCM) in December 2024. According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), these individuals were found guilty of participating in violent attacks on military facilities during the May 9 unrest.

“The Field General Court Martial has promulgated the punishments to the following remaining 60 culprits after examining all evidence, ensuring the provision of all legal rights to the convicts, completion of due process, and the appropriate legal proceedings,” read the ISPR statement.

Among those convicted is Hassaan Khan Niazi, the nephew of Imran Khan, along with two retired army officers. Sentences ranged from two to ten years of rigorous imprisonment. The breakdown includes:

  • 16 individuals sentenced to 10 years
  • 11 to nine years
  • 2 to eight years
  • 6 to seven years
  • 10 to six years
  • 2 to five years
  • 13 to four years
  • 3 to three years
  • 22 to two years

The convictions mark the conclusion of military trials for those held in custody related to the May 9 incidents. The Supreme Court's directive and the ATCs' accelerated schedule reflect growing judicial urgency to wrap up the high-stakes legal proceedings tied to Pakistan's turbulent political landscape.

 
Tagged:

ImranKhan

May9Riots

MilitaryCourts

LahoreATC

PTITrials
Share News: