ISPR Issues No Confirmation as Fake Reports of Life Sentence for Retired General Faiz Hameed Go Viral

Islamabad: Social media and WhatsApp have been flooded with a fake message claiming that former DG ISI, Retired General Faiz Hameed, has been sentenced in a court-martial and punished with life imprisonment. The message also falsely alleges that his movable and immovable properties have been confiscated, his pension and government privileges revoked, and his entire family’s names added to the Exit Control List (ECL).

However, no official confirmation or denial regarding any verdict has been issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, which is the authorized body for announcing military officers’ punishments.

“Azad Fact Check,” a social media fact-check account, has verified that the viral message is completely false and misleading. According to their investigation, no announcement regarding any sentence against General Faiz Hameed has been made.

Journalist Zahid Gashkori noted that General Faiz Hameed’s trial began on August 12, 2024, and concluded after 457 days. In a private interview, he said that while it is expected that some decision may be taken, there has been no confirmation of a life sentence, and it is possible that General Hameed may not retain his “General” title.

According to ISPR, the Field General Court Martial against General Faiz Hameed was initiated on August 12, 2024, on allegations including involvement in political activities, violation of the Official Secrets Act, misuse of powers and government resources, and causing unlawful harm to individuals. The court also investigated his alleged role in violent incidents, including the May 9, 2024 events, and whether political elements attempted to influence or conspire against him. ISPR emphasized that General Hameed was granted full legal rights during the proceedings.

General Faiz Hameed was taken into military custody in August on charges of misuse of power and violation of the Army Act, following a Supreme Court-directed operation in a private housing society over land-grabbing and corruption complaints. Three other retired officers were also arrested in connection with the case.