Hamad Azhar, a leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former federal minister, has been officially arrested by the Lahore Police in relation to 18 cases associated with the riots that occurred on May 9, 2023. This arrest follows his initial detention in Multan just a day prior.
Two days ago, Azhar was taken into custody in Multan and was later transferred to the Lahore Police. While police sources had confirmed his detention, the formal arrest was not recorded at that time.
The Lahore Police have now officially charged the PTI leader concerning the cases filed against him in Lahore. A spokesperson for the police stated that Azhar had been evading capture for nearly three years and was wanted in 18 cases.
This development occurred after Azhar’s mother filed a petition with the Lahore High Court (LHC) requesting his recovery.
In her petition, she named the Punjab Inspector General of Police, the Lahore Capital City Police Officer, and other officials as respondents. She urged the court to instruct the authorities to reveal details of Azhar’s arrest, provide information on the cases against him, and ensure his appearance before the court.
The petition indicated that the former federal minister had been apprehended in Multan but had not yet been presented in court.
According to police sources, Azhar, who has been declared a proclaimed offender, is wanted in multiple cases related to the May 9 riots.
Following his formal arrest, investigative police are anticipated to present Azhar in court to request his physical remand. Police officials indicated that once the investigation is concluded, a challan will be submitted to the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC).