Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, has been discharged in 12 cases related to the May 9, 2023 violent incidents.
The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi, presided over by Judge Malik Ijaz Asif, heard Bushra Bibi's plea concerning the cases. After reviewing the evidence and arguments presented, the court accepted her request for acquittal.
Bushra Bibi had been named in 12 cases registered in Rawalpindi over the May 9 violent incidents, including charges related to attacks on army's General Headquarters (GHQ) and other sensitive institutions. The police had sought to summon and obtain physical remand of the accused, but the court rejected the police's application and subsequently discharged Bushra Bibi from all 12 cases.
This ruling marks a significant development in the legal proceedings following the events of May 9, and Bushra Bibi's acquittal is expected to have broader implications for the ongoing investigations.
On August 15, the Rawalpindi Police completed the initial phase of their investigation into Bushra Bibi concerning her alleged involvement in the May 9 incidents.
The investigation was carried out under the supervision of SP Faisal Saleem, with the team visiting Adiala Jail where Bushra Bibi is currently detained.
According to sources, the police team questioned Bushra Bibi for about 30 minutes. The interrogation took place in the presence of DSP Shazia, and focused on her alleged role in organizing protests that led to arson and other violent activities in Rawalpindi.
Also Read: Bushra Bibi's bail in 12 cases of May 9 rejected
The investigators sought answers regarding the planning and execution of these protests, especially those held in front of sensitive locations.
A day earlier, the ATC had rejected the interim bail pleas of Bushra Bibi in connection with 12 cases related to the May 9, 2023 incidents. The court, presided over by Judge Malik Ijaz Asif, ordered the police to complete their investigation of these cases within the next seven days.
The hearing, which took place at Adiala Jail, saw Bushra Bibi's interim bail applications dismissed as the court emphasized the necessity of investigating the numerous charges against her.
"When a suspect is arrested in so many cases, an investigation is necessary," the court had remarked and adjourned the hearing of all related cases until August 22.
The May 9 cases, which involve over 500 suspected individuals, have led to significant legal proceedings. The presence of all 500 suspects was marked. Several high-profile figures, including Imran Khan, Sheikh Rashid, Shibli Faraz, Ghulam Sarwar, Sadaqat Abbasi, Shireen Mazari, and Azam Swati, were also present during the hearing at the specially arranged courtroom within Adiala Jail.
PTI Founder Imran Khan was also produced in the courtroom set up in Adiala Jail.
The cases stem from the tragic events of May 9, which resulted in widespread unrest and led to a series of arrests and legal actions.
