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IHC Acquits Four PTI Workers in May 9 Arson Case, Citing Lack of Evidence
Islamabad High Court acquits 4 PTI workers sentenced to 10 years in May 9 arson case. Court cites lack of evidence, witness contradictions.
ND
by News Desk
2025-07-04
IHC Acquits Four PTI Workers in May 9 Arson Case, Citing Lack of Evidence

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has acquitted four PTI workers previously sentenced to 10 years in prison in connection with the May 9 arson and vandalism case, citing a lack of concrete evidence and contradictions in witness testimonies.

A divisional bench comprising Justice Azam Khan and Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro announced the verdict, ordering the release of Sohail, Akram, Shahzeb, and Mira Khan, who had been convicted by the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) on May 30.

The petition was argued by senior lawyers Babar Awan, Sardar Shush, and Amina Ali on behalf of the accused. Babar Awan pointed out that out of nine prosecution witnesses, only one, ASI Muhammad Sharif, identified the accused, and even then, no physical injuries or medical evidence (MLC) were presented.

“The crime must be punished, but the justice system should not be made a joke,” Babar Awan argued in court.

The prosecution failed to present any further substantial evidence, despite being asked repeatedly by the bench. Justice Soomro remarked:

“All arguments have been heard. Now you're asking for time to bring evidence? That should’ve been done at the start.”

The court further questioned the validity of the identity parade and the absence of witness testimony placing the accused at the crime scene.

“Should the court now issue punishments just based on the identity parade?” Justice Soomro asked.

After evaluating the proceedings, the High Court declared the convictions baseless and overturned the ATC verdict. The four PTI workers have now been ordered to be released.

It is pertinent to note that the case was registered at the Ramna police station, and the verdict of Judge Tahir Abbas Supra of the Islamabad Anti-Terrorism Court had been challenged in the IHC.
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