ATC furious over escape of GHQ case suspect

Seeks replies from FIA, I&P chiefs on how accused flew abroad despite ban

RAWALPINDI:

A Special Anti-Terrorism Court in Rawalpindi has taken strict notice of the departure of a GHQ attack case accused to the US.

ATC Judge Amjad Ali Shah expressed anger over Usman Dar's escape to the US despite a court-imposed travel ban.

Contempt of court notices have been issued to the Director General of Immigration and Passports and the Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), who have been ordered to respond by Friday.

The court expressed concern that Dar's departure could delay proceedings in the GHQ attack case.

A prior court order required suspects in the case to obtain explicit permission before traveling abroad, a condition Dar allegedly violated.

The prosecution submitted evidence of Dar's departure, prompting the court to issue notices under Section 37 of the Anti-Terrorism Act. Judge Shah warned that failure to provide a satisfactory response could result in contempt proceedings against the two officials.

The court emphasized the illegality of the suspect's travel without judicial approval, underscoring the importance of compliance to ensure the smooth progress of the high-profile case.