RAWALPINDI: Military courts have issued sentences to 25 individuals linked to the May 9, 2023, attacks on state facilities. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) shared the update on Saturday.
The ISPR stated, “Field General Court Martial (FGCM) has in the first phase announced punishments for 25 culprits.” These individuals were involved in acts of violence during the May 9 protests. The protests erupted after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan was detained in a corruption case. Following this, many PTI workers were arrested. More than 100 civilians now face military trials.
Despite these developments, PTI denies any involvement in the attacks on military sites. The party has demanded a judicial inquiry into the events, including the attack on the General Headquarters (GHQ).
The military’s media arm noted that the process for sentencing the remaining accused is ongoing. Their sentences will be announced once due process is complete. The ISPR clarified that all those convicted have the right to appeal and pursue other legal options under the law and Constitution.
Initially, military trials were halted due to a Supreme Court ruling. However, the constitutional bench recently directed that pending cases be concluded. Judgements for individuals found guilty of these violent acts are being finalized.
Describing the attacks, the ISPR called May 9 a “Black Day” in Pakistan’s history. Politically driven violence and arson were carried out in multiple locations. According to the ISPR, this narrative of hate led to orchestrated attacks on military installations. These included acts of desecration against the monuments of martyrs.
The military’s statement labeled the violence as “political terrorism.” It added that such actions were attempts to impose a distorted agenda through fear and coercion. The events led to extensive investigations, with undeniable evidence gathered to prosecute those responsible. Some cases were referred to Field General Court Martial, where trials followed proper legal protocols.
The ISPR described the sentencing of the 25 individuals as a “milestone” in achieving justice. The military warned against falling for political propaganda and breaking the law in the future.
Apart from military courts, many accused are also being tried in anti-terrorism courts. The ISPR assured that justice would only be complete once the planners and masterminds of the May 9 tragedy face legal consequences.
The statement reiterated the state’s commitment to upholding the rule of law. It emphasized eliminating violence-fueled politics rooted in hate and baseless propaganda. The government aims to maintain the state’s authority and bring lasting justice to the nation.
