LHC CJ takes notice of firing at sessions court, seeks report from IGP

The Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court, Aalia Neelum, has taken notice of a firing incident inside the Sessions Court Lahore, seeking reports from the Inspector General of Punjab Police and the Sessions Judge Lahore, while observing that security at courts across Punjab must be made foolproof.

The development follows an early-morning gun attack at the Sessions Court premises that left two people injured, highlighting serious lapses in court security.

According to police, the incident occurred outside the courtroom of Additional Sessions Judge Saifullah Hanjra, where an alleged shooter, identified as Nadeem, opened fire at the accused, Saad and Faizan, who were present for a hearing. Saad sustained three bullet injuries, while another individual, Usman, suffered a gunshot wound to the ankle. Faizan remained unharmed.

The suspect was arrested on the spot along with the weapon. During initial interrogation, Nadeem told police that he had intended to kill Faizan but fired when the accused was not produced in court on time.

Read: 'Court must protect witnesses' dignity'

Police said Saad and Faizan were already nominated in a murder case registered at Raiwind Police Station, and the attacker allegedly acted on instructions from the complainant party.

The incident triggered panic and chaos within the court premises, with people scrambling for safety. Senior police officials rushed to the scene upon receiving information. The firing has raised serious questions over security arrangements, as the accused managed to bring a weapon inside the court despite the presence of walkthrough gates at the main and Baba Ground entrances. Reports also suggest that security personnel failed to conduct proper body searches.

Following the incident, the Sessions Judge Lahore and other senior judges visited the site and sought a detailed briefing from police officials. Concerns have also been raised over alleged attempts to shield those responsible for administrative negligence.