An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Karachi has remanded Chanesar Town Chairman Farhan Ghani, the younger brother of Sindh’s local government minister Saeed Ghani, in police custody until August 28. This follows allegations of assault against a government employee during fibre cable work supervision.
FIR Filed Against Farhan Ghani
The case began when government employee Hafiz Sohail lodged a complaint against Farhan Ghani. Sohail alleged that he was attacked while overseeing fibre cable installation on a service road off Sharae Faisal on August 22.
The FIR names Farhan Ghani and five associates under charges of attempted murder and terrorism, among other legal provisions.
Court Proceedings and Police Statement
During proceedings at Karachi Central Jail, police produced Ghani and his associates before the ATC. The court questioned the Investigating Officer (IO) to explain the charges against the accused.
The IO claimed that Farhan Ghani and his associates assaulted the government official while carrying out work under police protection. The prosecution requested a 14-day physical remand to continue investigations.
Farhan Ghani Denies Allegations
Farhan Ghani denied all allegations in court. He stated that he was only passing by when he noticed road construction taking place. According to him, as Town Chairman, he had the authority to question any unauthorized activity.
He told the court, “I only asked them to show the permission letter (NOC). When they didn’t, I requested them to stop. I did not assault anyone.”
Court Decision
After considering arguments from both sides, the ATC granted police physical custody of Farhan Ghani and his associates until August 28. The court also ordered police to submit a progress report and present the accused at the next hearing.
Context and Implications
The remand highlights tensions between local authorities and government employees in Karachi. Questions have been raised regarding the application of anti-terrorism laws in cases of alleged administrative disputes.
This case will also test procedural accountability in handling complaints against influential political figures. Meanwhile, investigators will continue probing whether the assault claims have legal merit or were related to a routine oversight of civic infrastructure.
Authorities have stressed the importance of ensuring transparent investigations to maintain public confidence in local governance and the rule of law.
