In compliance with Supreme Court directives to wrap up trials within four months, Lahore’s anti-terrorism courts (ATCs) have increased the frequency of hearings related to the May 9, 2023, riots. The cases involve members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) accused of attacking military installations following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
According to an updated schedule issued by the Lahore High Court registrar, trials of the May 9 suspects—currently being held at Kot Lakhpat Jail—will now take place four days a week: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Previously, hearings were held three days a week.
The ATCs are overseeing 14 jail trials, including the high-profile Jinnah House attack case.
The judicial process follows a parallel set of military court proceedings. In December 2024, the Pakistan Army announced the sentencing of 60 PTI activists by the Field General Court Martial (FGCM) for their role in the violent protests. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, confirmed that due legal process was followed, with all rights of the accused upheld.
Among those sentenced are Hassaan Khan Niazi, nephew of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, along with two retired military officers. The sentences range from two to ten years of rigorous imprisonment.
The breakdown of sentences includes:
- 16 individuals sentenced to 10 years
- 11 to nine years
- 2 to eight years
- 6 to seven years
- 10 to six years
- 2 to five years
- 13 to four years
- 3 to three years
- 22 to two years
These rulings conclude the military trials of those detained for attacks on army facilities, as the civilian judicial system accelerates proceedings against other suspects still awaiting trial.
