Evidence against Imran in May 9, Gen Faiz cases available, claim govt sources

ISLAMABAD: Government sources claim to have gathered criminal evidence against Imran Khan in connection with May 9 as well as Gen Faiz Hameed case.

The sources, however, said no decision has been taken as yet to hand over founder chairman PTI’s custody to the military authorities for his trial under Army Act.

These sources said the nature of allegations against Imran Khan though make his case falling within the jurisdiction of Army Act for a military trial, presently the matter relating to civilian trial in military courts in connection with May 9 attacks is pending with the apex court.

Regarding May 9 case, a source said Imran Khan’s involvement as master planner is certainly confirmed, given the numerous evidence, including statements of those in custody. However, trial of civilians in military courts is up to the decision of the judiciary.

The News was told a cabinet committee in its report also held Imran Khan responsible for May 9 attacks. The report prepared during the caretaker government on May 9 said, “Evidence shown to the committee suggests several party leaders were involved in this planning. It further suggests Mr Khan actively contributed to it”.

It also disclosed, “Investigations conducted so far suggest there were 34 individuals who masterminded the strategy of violent street power, actively contributed to planning the violence and mayhem. Additionally, 52 individuals contributed to detail planning and 185 individuals executed this plan”.

The report added it was an organised and dangerous strategy not only to pressurise Pakistan Army for a political deal to meet Imran Khan’s demands, but a brazen attempt to incite rebellion from within the armed forces in PTI’s favour.

“The party had been emboldened by a lack of firm response to its earlier violence by State institutions. A frontal assault on military installations was to weaken the army’s morale and pressurise it into political deal making. This was also a brazen and a mistaken attempt at inciting rebellion from within the armed forces in its favour”, said the report.

Regarding Gen Faiz case, this correspondent asked a source, whether any criminal connection is found between Imran Khan and Gen Faiz after latter retirement, the source said “yes”. However, the sources have not yet confirmed such a “criminal connection” relates to May 9 attacks.

Talking about Gen Faiz’s role in May 9 attacks, a source said it is being investigated.

It is generally believed trial of a former prime minister and leader of largest political party in the country will invite global attention. DGISPR on Thursday said the law will take its course, but the fact remains no leading PTI political leader, involved in May 9 attacks, has been tried in military courts. The authorities, however, hope the civilian courts will do the justice.