An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad has rejected the bail plea of PTI leader Omar Ayub and directed his immediate arrest. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the violent protests organized on November 26, during which thousands of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters clashed with security forces in Islamabad.
Justice Amjad Ali Shah made the ruling, citing Ayub’s absence during the hearing. The court also noted the absence of Ayub’s lawyer, Dr. Babar Awan. Meanwhile, interim bail for another PTI member, Sanam Javed, was extended.
The November 26 protest escalated after demonstrators, advocating for former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s release, forcefully breached security barriers and defied a government lockdown to reach D-Chowk in Islamabad. Armed with slingshots and sticks, the protesters confronted tear gas and rubber bullets but continued their march. The government had to invoke Article 245, deploying the army to maintain order.
Omar Ayub is one of several prominent PTI figures named in a case filed under anti-terrorism laws at Taxila Police Station. The case also implicated other high-profile individuals, including Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, former President Dr. Arif Alvi, and PTI leaders like Ali Amin Gandapur and Azam Swati. Over 300 local PTI officials and activists were also accused.
The legal proceedings are part of intensified efforts to address growing unrest linked to political tensions in the country.
