JIT's investigation of Imran Khan under the ‘siege of black goats’

Despite the unusual delay caused by the black goat circle, the JIT eventually gained access to PTI chief’s residence

In a dramatic turn of events, the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) assigned to probe ten cases against former prime minister Imran Khan faced an unexpected obstacle during their visit to the PTI chief’s residence at Lahore’s Zaman Park.

As the team entered the premises on Friday, they were met with a peculiar sight: a circle of black goats encircling them, delaying their access momentarily, as reported by Express News.

The visit by the JIT to Zaman Park aimed to investigate multiple cases against Imran Khan, including allegations of attacking police officials, causing public disorder, setting state properties ablaze, and his alleged involvement in the Zille Shah murder case. Several FIRs had been registered against Imran Khan and other PTI leaders in connection with these incidents.

Despite the unusual delay caused by the black goat circle, the JIT eventually gained access to Imran Khan's residence.

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During the investigation, Imran Khan took the opportunity to criticise his political opponents in front of the JIT members. The team diligently inquired about the cases, posing questions to Imran Khan for a period of 40 minutes.

According to sources within the JIT, one of the inquiries pertained to a petrol bomb attack that allegedly occurred on March 8. Imran Khan clarified that the incident actually took place after March 14 when internet services were suspended, stating that he was aware of the petrol bomb attack but not the stone pelting, as it seemed to originate from outside the premises.

Furthermore, Imran Khan was questioned about the death of activist Zille Shah, to which he responded by mentioning that Yasmin Rashid had provided information about the vehicle and its owner.

The JIT collected soil samples from eight locations. Two bags of marbles were hidden behind the sofa as the team took pictures of marbles. Some bottles used to make petrol bombs were also found from the adjacent yard at the residence. Soil samples were sent to the forensic laboratory.

Officials have said that further stages of the report and investigation will determine the facts.

The background to these investigations traces back to a clash between the police and PTI workers outside Imran Khan's Zaman Park residence on April 5. Following the altercation, the police accused the PTI workers of attacking them and causing damage to both public and private property.

In contrast, the PTI vehemently denied the allegations, alleging that the police had used excessive force against peaceful protesters. The party called for an independent inquiry into the incident to ensure transparency and fairness.