ATC holds Imran Khan responsible for May 9 riots, denies bail
The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore has issued a written verdict denying bail to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan in eight cases related to the violent May 9 riots. Justice Manzar Ali Gill, in a six-page decision, held Khan responsible for masterminding the unrest and inciting violence.
The court detailed evidence presented by the prosecution, including statements from undercover police officers who attended meetings at Khan’s Zaman Park residence, where plans for the May 9 attacks were allegedly discussed. Audio recordings of Khan were also submitted, in which he was reportedly heard urging his supporters to resort to violence if he were arrested.
Also Read:
According to the prosecution, the decision to target military installations was made during meetings at Zaman Park on May 7 and 9. The court emphasized that Khan’s directives led to widespread vandalism and chaos, as his followers acted on his instructions without question, highlighting his significant influence over party members and supporters.
The verdict rejected the defense’s argument that Khan could not be responsible as he was under arrest at the time of the riots. The court stated that the conspiracy had been planned prior to his detention and that the attacks on military installations, police, and government buildings were carried out as a result of his incitement.
Referring to a related bail plea by PTI Senator Ejaz Chaudhry, the court noted that Khan’s role as the orchestrator of the violence had been discussed during the Lahore High Court hearing. The ATC declared that inciting such widespread violence was not an ordinary matter and justified the rejection of bail.
Read all the Breaking News Live on pakistantimes.com and Get Latest English News & Updates from Pakistan Times. Follow us on Whatsapp channel for more.
