ATC acquits Shah Mehmood Qureshi, sentences Dr Yasmin , other PTI leaders to 10 years in Sherpao Bridge Case

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore on Tuesday sentenced senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders including Dr. Yasmin Rashid, Ijaz Chaudhry, Omar Sarfraz Cheema, and Mian Mahmood Rashid to 10 years in prison each in the Sherpao Bridge arson and incitement case, stemming from the violent protests of May 9, 2023.

ATC Judge Arshad Javed announced the much-anticipated verdict inside Kot Lakhpat Jail under tight security, bringing to conclusion case number 97/23 registered at Sarwar Road Police Station. The trial revolved around provocative speeches, torching of public property, and terror-related charges in the aftermath of former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s arrest.

The court, however, acquitted six accused — including former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Hamza Pahat (son of lawyer and PTI leader Afzal Azeem Pahat), Rana Tanveer, Azaz Rafique, Ziyas and Muhammad Iftikhar — citing insufficient evidence.

Afzal Azeem Pahat, despite being a practising lawyer and political leader, was sentenced to 10 years, while co-accused Ali Hasan, Riaz Hasan and Khalid Qayuum received the same sentence.

In total, 14 prominent figures faced trial, with the prosecution presenting testimonies from 61 witnesses. Prosecutor Abdul Jabbar Dogar urged the court to deliver strict punishments, asserting that the accused played key roles in inciting violence and disrupting public order. The defence team, led by Burhan Moazzam Malik, argued the case was politically driven and lacked credible evidence.

Security remained on high alert around Kot Lakhpat Jail during the verdict’s announcement. The court had earlier directed all accused on bail to remain in custody pending the judgment, fearing unrest.

Reporter: Jamaluddin Jamali