May 9 Case Detailed Verdict Issued; PTI Leader Mahmood Rashid Sentenced to 33 Years in Prison

Lahore: An anti-terrorism court has issued a detailed written verdict in the May 9 cases, sentencing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Mian Mahmood Rashid to a total of 33 years in prison along with a fine of Rs600,000.

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) released its detailed judgment in two cases related to arson, siege, and torching of vehicles in Lahore’s Gulberg area on May 9. After reviewing the evidence, the court acquitted 23 accused due to lack of proof, while seven accused, including PTI leaders, were handed down various sentences.

According to the written verdict, Mahmood Rashid was awarded separate sentences under different sections of the law, which cumulatively amount to 33 years of imprisonment. In addition to the prison term, a monetary fine was also imposed on him.

The court further sentenced Dr Yasmin Rashid, Umar Sarfraz Cheema, and Ejaz Chaudhry to 10 years in prison each. The judgment stated that their presence in a meeting related to conspiracy was proven, and according to the prosecution, these leaders incited public unrest to facilitate arson and violence.

The verdict noted that the prosecution presented various WhatsApp messages, details of 70 social media accounts, and forensic reports against the accused. It further stated that the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) found the accused guilty, and none of them challenged the JIT report before any forum. However, in their final statements, all the accused maintained their innocence.

The court concluded that the prosecution had successfully established the case against the convicted individuals, leading to the announced sentences.