May 9 Riots: Pakistani Military Courts Impose Prison Sentences of 2 to 10 Years on 60 Civilians

ISLAMABAD, Dec 26: Another 60 civilians have been convicted and sentenced by Pakistan’s military courts to prison terms between two to ten years for their roles in the attacks on army installations during the unrest of May 9 last year, the army reported on Thursday.
This announcement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)—the military’s media branch—follows the previous week’s disclosure regarding the conviction of 25 individuals for similar offenses during the violence instigated by supporters of Imran Khan in response to his arrest.
“Following the announcement of the May 9 sentences in accordance with the Supreme Court’s directives, the Field General Court Martial has issued rulings for the remaining 60 offenders after careful review of the evidence, assuring all legal rights to the defendants, adherence to due process, and fulfillment of appropriate legal procedures,” stated the army.
Notably among the new convicts is Imran Khan’s nephew, Hassan Khan Niazi, who received a 10-year rigorous imprisonment sentence for his involvement in the attack on the Jinnah House, residence of the Lahore Corps commander.
The military further confirmed that, with this latest ruling, the military trials concerning those accused of the May 9 events “have now concluded under the applicable laws.”
“All convicts maintain their entitlement to appeal and other legal avenues, as assured by the Constitution and law,” it added.
The army asserted that the nation, the government, and the armed forces remain firmly committed to upholding justice and ensuring the inviolable authority of the state is preserved.
Previously, the government had transferred over 100 suspects to military jurisdiction for trials under army regulations due to their involvement in attacks on military facilities.
The announcement of their verdicts faced delays due to petitions submitted to the Supreme Court opposing the civilian trials. Although a final decision is still outstanding, the Supreme Court permitted the army to proceed with verdicts on cases that were concluded. (PTI)