Arrest Warrants Issued for PTI Workers in Latest Crackdown

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad has issued arrest warrants for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers who failed to appear in court. Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra was hearing cases related to the May 9 protests and other charges involving PTI founder Imran Khan, senior leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi, and party workers.

During Wednesday’s hearing, lawyers Sardar Muhammad Masroof Khan, Murtaza Toori, and others represented the accused. However, proceedings were delayed due to the absence of Imran Khan and Qureshi. The court marked the attendance of those present and adjourned the hearing.
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Defense lawyers argued that Imran Khan’s unavailability was affecting the trial’s progress and requested exemption for PTI workers traveling from remote areas. However, the judge noted that the Supreme Court’s directives on May 9-related cases also applied here.

The defense maintained that the SC’s directives were limited to Punjab. The court ultimately adjourned the hearing of three related cases until May 9.

The cases against PTI workers are registered at Shams Colony Police Station and Khanna Police Station, related to protests in May 2023 and March 2023, respectively.