Lahore( Khyber point)The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore on Wednesday reserved its decision on the post-arrest bail plea of Shahrez Khan, son of Aleema Khan, sister of former PTI chairman Imran Khan, in connection with the May 9, 2023 riots case.
The proceedings were presided over by ATC Judge Manzar Ali Gul, who heard arguments from both the defense and prosecution before reserving judgment. The case relates to violent protests and arson attacks that erupted following Imran Khan’s arrest last year.
During the hearing, Shahrez’s parents, Aleema Khan and Sohail Ameer, were present in the courtroom. Defense counsel Rana Mudassar argued that his client had been falsely implicated. He contended that Shahrez was accused of inciting PTI workers, but no evidence or witness statements directly linked him to the violence. He further emphasized that the charge sheet does not mention Shahrez by name and that all forensic checks, including geo-fencing, had failed to establish his involvement.
Mudassar also claimed that Shahrez was in Chitral between May 6 and 12, backed by sworn affidavits, and added that he is currently an Oxford University student. He alleged that the arrest was politically motivated, aimed at silencing Aleema Khan, who has consistently campaigned for her brother’s release.
The prosecution, however, maintained that verification was incomplete and presented photographs sourced from Shahrez’s friends’ social media, though none from his own accounts.
After listening to both sides, Judge Manzar Ali Gul remarked that the court would deliver its verdict later, formally reserving the decision. The ruling is expected to be significant, as over 500 co-accused in related cases have already been granted bail.
