An Islamabad district and sessions court has ordered the arrest of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi in a case registered under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. The court directed authorities to produce the chief minister before the next hearing.
Senior Civil Judge Abbas Shah issued the order during proceedings at the District and Sessions Courts in Islamabad. The case relates to allegations that Afridi made misleading and defamatory accusations against state institutions.
Court Maintains Non-Bailable Warrants
According to court records, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Authority (NCCIA) registered the case on November 9, 2025. Investigators accused the chief minister of making false claims against state institutions through electronic platforms.
During Monday’s hearing, Judge Abbas Shah noted that Afridi had repeatedly failed to appear before the court. Furthermore, the judge observed that the chief minister had ignored multiple summons without providing a lawful justification.
As a result, the court maintained the non-bailable arrest warrants already issued against him. This marks the fifth time the court has issued non-bailable warrants in the case due to his continued absence.
Authorities Directed to Produce Chief Minister
The court instructed law enforcement agencies to arrest Afridi and present him before the court. Officials must ensure compliance with the court’s orders before the next hearing.
The judge emphasized the importance of appearing before the court and participating in legal proceedings. Consequently, authorities received clear directions to execute the warrants without delay.
The case remains under judicial review as legal proceedings continue. Meanwhile, the court has adjourned further hearings until June 18. Additional developments are expected when the matter returns before the court.
