Court slams CTD over 'misuse' of powers, unlawful arrests

An anti-terrorism court in Peshawar issued on Saturday a damning court order against the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) while issuing notices to the interior ministry, inspector general (IG) police, and CTD additional inspector general of Police (AIG).

The court order stated that the CTD made several arrests in multiple cases without evidence, adding that it has been "misusing" police power. The order also stated that the department's poor performance has damaged its credibility.

The court noted that despite recurring issues, there has been no improvement in the department's conduct.

"It is time to reassess the CTD's performance," the order maintained.

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The court also issued an order in the case concerning Hammaduddin, a suspect who was arrested six years after the 2017 attack on the Agriculture Training Institute (ATI) hostel near Peshawar's University Road.

Despite his arrest, there is no evidence against Hammaduddin, and no suspicions were raised about his involvement. The court has declared his arrest illegal and ordered his immediate release.

On December 1, 2017, three militants entered the ATI hostel, killing nine people and injuring 37 including teachers, employees, and students of the institute. The attack was claimed by banned Tehreek Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Six students, the institute's gatekeeper, and two civilians were among the dead. One police officer, two soldiers, and a journalist were among the injured.