Hajj scam 2010: Accused Rao Shakil in privileged custody at Mayo Hospital

Shakil has access to a laptop and mobile phone, which is against the law.

LAHORE: The main accused in last year's Hajj scam, former Director General (DG) Operations, Rao Shakil Ahmad was enjoying a privileged stay at the Mayo Hospital Lahore, Express 24/7 reported on Monday. 

Shakil, who failed to appear before the Islamabad High Court (IHC), citing poor health is reportedly enjoying all the privileges at Lahore's Mayo Hospital, despite being in custody.

In a recent footage obtained by Express News, the former DG Hajj is seen sitting on a hospital bed, cross-legged and at times hunched foward, despite being bed ridden for a back problem.

The footage also shows Shakil having access to a laptop and mobile phone, which is against the law although he is allowed to meet relatives and lawyers.

Also in the footage, the police officer deputed for his security was seen busy reading a newspaper sitting on the same hospital bed.

Legal experts claim that if an accused falls in ‘A’ category list then he can only have access to newspapers, whereas the use of laptops and mobile phones is strictly against the law.

Hospital officials claim the former DG Hajj is being treated for a back problem.

Shakil is accused of embezzling billions of rupees regarding renting living quarters for pilgrims during last year’s Hajj season. The case is still ongoing and has landed former minister for religious affairs Hamid Saeed Kazmi in jail.