PTI chief Imran Khan arrested in Al-Qadir Trust case

Country’s restive politics is likely in for a flare-up as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan was arrested by Rangers personnel from Islamabad High Court (IHC) — who were acting on National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) warrant,

Title: PTI Chairman Imran Khan Arrested in Al-Qadir Trust Case: Political Tensions Rise

Introduction (SEO-friendly):

Political tensions in Pakistan have heightened as Imran Khan, the chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was arrested by Rangers personnel from Islamabad High Court (IHC). The arrest was made based on a warrant issued by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) as part of an investigation into the Al-Qadir Trust case. Khan's arrest occurred just before his scheduled appearance before the IHC to seek bail in multiple FIRs filed against him. The incident has triggered a response from PTI, condemning the arrest as an "abduction" and calling for nationwide protests.

Imran Khan's Arrest and Alleged Torture

Imran Khan was taken into custody by Rangers personnel driving a black Toyota Hilux Vigo while he was on his way for biometric verification at the IHC. The NAB officials had arrest warrants for Khan, which were issued on May 1 by NAB chairman Lt Gen (retd) Nazir Ahmad Butt. Khan's lawyer, Barrister Ali Gohar, claimed that the Rangers personnel "tortured" the PTI chairman during the arrest, alleging that he was hit on the head and his injured leg.

IHC Takes Notice and Seeks Explanation

The arrest of Imran Khan prompted the Chief Justice of Islamabad High Court, Aamer Farooq, to take notice of the matter. He summoned the Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the interior secretary within 15 minutes to provide an explanation. The Chief Justice also directed the additional attorney general to appear before the court and investigate the individuals responsible for the arrest. He emphasized that if an inquiry were to be conducted, action would be taken against the prime minister and ministers, if necessary.

PTI's Response and Call for Protests

The PTI strongly condemned the arrest of their party chairman, labeling it an "abduction" by the law enforcement agency. They urged their supporters and workers to stage protests across the country in response to the incident. The arrest has further fueled political tensions in the country.

The Al-Qadir Trust Case

Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and other PTI leaders are facing a NAB inquiry related to a settlement between the PTI government and a property tycoon. The settlement allegedly caused a loss of 190 million pounds to the national exchequer. The charges accuse Khan and others of adjusting Rs50 billion (equivalent to 190 million pounds at the time) sent by Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA) to the government. They are also accused of obtaining undue benefits, including over 458 kanals of land, to establish Al-Qadir University in Mouza Bakrala, Sohawa.

Conclusion

The arrest of Imran Khan in the Al-Qadir Trust case has sparked a new wave of political tensions in Pakistan. The PTI's strong response and call for protests indicate that the incident will have significant implications for the country's political landscape. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for authorities to ensure transparency, conduct a fair investigation, and uphold the principles of justice.