Anti-Terrorism Court Grants Former Assembly Member Ali Wazir an Additional 3-Day Physical Remand

Islamabad: The Anti-Terrorism Court in Islamabad has approved an additional 3-day physical remand for former Member of Parliament Ali Wazir. The decision came after Wazir’s 6-day physical remand expired, and he was presented in court. Wazir’s lawyer, Masdaq Aziz Khattak, was also present during the proceedings.
At the start of the hearing, Judge Tahir Abbas Spara inquired about the progress of the investigation. Prosecutor Raja Naveed informed the court that the authorities needed to recover mobile phones and conduct further investigation, requesting a 20-day physical remand.
Wazir’s lawyer argued against the extended remand, claiming that the charges were exaggerated and that the prosecution aimed to obstruct Wazir’s bail by fabricating evidence. The defense criticized the prosecution’s motives, alleging that 3 kilograms of hashish had been planted on Wazir.
The investigating officer explained that the mobile phones were crucial for identifying individuals who blocked the police’s path. Raja Naveed added that in terrorism cases, a 90-day remand could be requested.
Judge Spara questioned whether the judgment of Justice Asif Saeed Khosa applied only to courts or also to agencies. He also asked if guidelines were followed when registering FIRs and whether Section 7 ATA applied in cases where terrorism was not intended.
Judge Spara remarked that he would need to review whether the section applied and noted his authority as a magistrate to issue administrative orders. He highlighted that 6 days was already a significant period for remand.
Following the proceedings, the court reserved its decision on the request for an additional remand. Later, Judge Spara issued a ruling granting Ali Wazir an additional 3-day physical remand.