The formal trial for the May 9 attack on the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi began today, with the prosecution presenting eyewitness testimony and evidence in a hearing at Adiala Jail. Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was present throughout the proceedings.
Judge Amjad Ali Shah presided over the hearing, where four Rawalpindi police eyewitnesses – ASI Saqib, Constables Shakil, Sajjad, and Yasir – gave their testimonies. The witnesses provided crucial evidence, including items seized from the accused, such as a helmet reportedly taken from anti-riot forces, petrol bombs, fragments of statues damaged during the attack, and mobile phones.
Additional evidence presented included sticks, flags, PTI caps, matches, and wires. One mobile phone was even found during the court proceedings.
During their testimonies, the witnesses identified several accused individuals, including Raja Basharat, who was present in the courtroom. One witness testified that Raja Basharat led the protests outside the GHQ and incited the crowd to retaliate against the army in response to Imran Khan’s arrest.
The courtroom was filled with accused individuals, lawyers, prosecution members, and media representatives, with tensions rising during heated exchanges between defense lawyers and the prosecution. Due to noise from the accused, the court used a sound system to ensure clear recording of the testimonies and issued warnings to maintain order. Imran Khan remained in the courtroom throughout the witness statements.
The court has summoned five additional prosecution witnesses for the next hearing and adjourned the proceedings until January 18. The trial is expected to continue with more witness testimonies and additional evidence.
