£190m case postponed over Adiala jail security concerns

ISLAMABAD: An accountability court has adjourned the hearing of the 190 million pound reference until May 17 due to security concerns raised by the Adiala Jail authorities.

In a letter addressed to Islamabad Accountability Court Judge Nasir Javed Rana, the jail superintendent cited security concerns, saying that Adiala Jail is the most sensitive facility in the province, currently accommodating approximately 7,000 beyond its capacity.

The jail houses individuals involved in serious crimes, including terrorism, as well as high-profile prisoners with political backgrounds.

The Punjab Home Department has received intelligence indicating a potential attack on jails by banned organisations, with specific security threats identified for Mianwali, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rawalpindi, and Attock Jails.

Law enforcement agencies conducted a mock exercise to bolster security at Adiala Jail, and security clearance procedures are underway for residents living in adjacent areas. In light of these security arrangements, the court agreed to postpone the hearing on the 190 million pound reference until next week, adjourning proceedings to May 17.