PTI activists remanded in police custody

Special ATC to handle cases against PTI founder

RAWALPINDI:

Duty Civil Judge Shama Yaseen has granted a one-day physical remand for 64 activists arrested in connection with four terrorism cases stemming from a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest at Liaquat Bagh, Murree Road, on September 28. All activists, including women, are scheduled to appear in the District and Sessions Court of Rawalpindi on Monday (today).

Additionally, 25 activists apprehended for violating Section 144 and other offences have been remanded to Adiala Jail for 14 days, until October 12. Notably, an 80-year-old woman among the detainees has also been sent to jail.

The court determined that the terrorism-related cases fell outside its jurisdiction, leading to the decision for a one-day physical remand, while the police's request for a five-day remand was denied. The activists were transported in three police buses, where they continued to chant slogans supporting the PTI founder. A significant number of supporters and lawyers were present at the courthouse during this time.

The Special Anti-Terrorism Court Judge, Syed Amjad Ali Shah, has taken charge of the court. The cases will be forwarded to him by the Sessions Judge today.

In a related development, the police have filed three new cases against the PTI founder, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur also nominated.

These new cases include allegations of terrorism, incitement against national institutions, vandalism, rioting, and assaults on police officers, including seizing weapons and damaging uniforms. In total, six cases have been registered against the activists.

The Duty Civil Judge's decision to remand the accused in the terrorism cases for one day coincides with other judicial remands. The elderly female activist expressed her willingness to go to jail for the release of Imran Khan, stating that this is her first time in custody of him.