Narcotics cases: PHC asks federal govt to delegate powers to DI Khan courts

PESHAWAR: Peshawar High Court (PHC) Chief Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim on Monday directed the federal government to delegate powers to the courts in Dera Ismail Khan to hear narcotics-related cases.

The chief justice said that the government’s role was to facilitate rather than create difficulties. He remarked that transferring ANF cases from Dera Ismail Khan to Kohat resulted in unnecessary time and financial losses.

Justice Ishtiaq issued these directions during a hearing on the bail plea of an accused, Rauf Khan, who was arrested by the ANF for allegedly attempting to smuggle 167 kilograms of hashish.

Advocate Nosheen Ahmed represented the petitioner, while ANF lawyer Tariq Kakar appeared on behalf of the agency. During the hearing, the chief justice questioned why ANF cases from Dera Ismail Khan were being transferred to courts in Kohat.

The chief justice said that there were logistical challenges of transporting the accused and case-related evidence over long distances. He remarked that instead of burdening stakeholders, the government should immediately notify local judges in Dera Ismail Khan to hear these cases.

Advocate Nosheen Ahmed informed the court that her client suffered from Hepatitis C and severe liver issues and requested bail on medical grounds.However, the ANF lawyer opposed the request, arguing that such ailments were widespread in Pakistan due to water contamination and did not justify bail at this stage.

The chief justice directed Additional Attorney General Sanaullah to expedite the process of delegating powers to courts in Dera Ismail Khan to hear narcotics cases.The court adjourned the hearing into the bail application to January 27 and directed the federal government to submit a report on the matter.