Islamabad’s Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) granted bail to three teenagers arrested in a case linked to a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest at D-Chowk. The case was registered by the Secretariat police station, and the accused, aged 14, 16, and 17.5 years, were released on surety bonds of Rs10,000 each.
During the hearing, the defense counsel highlighted procedural flaws and questioned the legitimacy of the arrests. Siam, a 14-year-old boy, had travelled to Islamabad from Afghanistan with his mother for medical treatment. The lawyer revealed that Siam was arrested from his residence in Shahzad Town and later implicated in the protest case without substantial evidence. The court criticised the police for failing to present proper records, delaying the legal process.
The prosecutor, Raja Naveed, assured the court that the required records would be submitted soon. After reviewing the arguments, the judge approved Siam’s bail and ordered his immediate release.
In a related hearing, Shahzad Khan (17.5 years) and Samundar Khan (16) were also granted bail. Their lawyer, Wali Khan, argued that both boys were unlawfully detained from their homes and charged without credible evidence. The court granted bail on similar terms and expressed dissatisfaction with the police’s handling of the case.
The ATC judge criticised the police and administrative officials for delays in conducting the identity parade of the accused. He warned senior officials, including the deputy inspector general (DIG) and inspector general (IG), to ensure compliance. The judge also expressed displeasure at the absence of the accused, emphasising that no further delays or apologies would be tolerated.
Assistant Commissioner Farhan, who appeared in court, explained that the deputy commissioner was attending proceedings at the Supreme Court. The court, however, reiterated its demand for timely compliance with legal procedures.
