PTI leaders face new charges after protests

FIR alleges protestors incited violence and disrupted public order

RAWALPINDI:

In the wake of recent protests by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) at D-Chowk in Islamabad, authorities have registered a new case against over 300 party leaders and activists, including the party's founder, Imran Khan. The case was filed at Naseerabad police station under multiple charges, including provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act and the Criminal Conspiracy Act.

The FIR, lodged by Sub-Inspector Mehboobur Rehman, cites serious allegations such as inciting violence, making riotous statements and aiding and abetting criminal activities. Notable figures named in the case include PTI founder Imran Khan, Shehryar Riaz, Colonel Ajmal Saber and several other party leaders.

According to the complaint, the protestors were reportedly armed and intended to disrupt the government. The complainant stated that while on law and order duty, he learned that approximately 300 PTI workers were gathering with weapons, hand grenades and sticks to challenge the writ of the state. The protest was described as an attempt to impose a self-made agenda through violent means.

The report details that the police attempted to disperse the crowd at the Motorway M1 Toll Plaza, where demonstrators had blocked the highway and were chanting slogans against state institutions. Despite warnings that Section 144 was in effect, leaders like Raja Shehbaz and Shehryar Riaz allegedly encouraged protestors to defy government orders and intensify their actions.

The situation escalated when the protestors, reportedly led by Alamgir, clashed with police, resulting in injuries and property damage.

The police reported that demonstrators attacked with sticks, stones, and petrol bombs, leading to significant chaos. A police vehicle was damaged during the unrest, and 16 individuals were arrested in the process.

Workers remanded into custody

Special Anti-Terrorism Court Judge Syed Amjad Ali Shah granted an 8-day physical remand for 71 PTI workers, including Rahim and Taj, who were arrested during protests on September 28 and October 4.

The protests were against the government and in support of the judiciary.

The court ordered the completion of the investigation and instructed that the workers be presented again on October 14.

Meanwhile, 38 other workers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, including Tasbiuallah, were sent to Adiala Jail on a 14-day judicial remand and will be presented again on October 21.