The Lahore High Court has dismissed the bail petitions of former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in eight cases linked to the events of May 9, 2023.
A two-member bench, headed by Justice Syed Shahbaz Ali Rizvi, heard the petitions. During the hearing, Imran Khan’s lawyer, Barrister Salman Safdar, argued that the cases were politically motivated. He stated that Khan was in NAB custody at the time and unaware of the incidents taking place outside. He also noted that Khan had condemned the violence and requested post-arrest bail.
The prosecution opposed the bail requests, claiming the May 9 incidents were part of a pre-planned conspiracy. They alleged that military installations were attacked on the PTI founder’s instructions and submitted supporting evidence.
After hearing both sides, the court reserved its verdict, which was later announced, rejecting Imran Khan’s bail in all eight cases. These cases include the Jinnah House attack, Askari Tower case, arson at Shadman police station, attack on Rahat Bakery, torching of a government vehicle near Jinnah House, arson at Sherpao Bridge, rioting in Mughalpura, and violence outside Zaman Park.
