Imran Riaz Khan, a well-known anchorperson, was placed under a five-day physical remand on terrorism charges soon after receiving bail in a separate corruption case concerning an alleged overpriced contract for Dharabi Lake in Chakwal.
In this terrorism-related case, the judge of an anti-terrorism court limited the physical remand to five days, rejecting a 15-day request by the Investigation Officer. The allegations include engaging in arson and attacking police with stones near PTI founder Imran Khan’s Zaman Park residence in Lahore.
Post-hearing, Riaz confidently stated his faith in divine supremacy, labelling the charges as politically influenced, hinting at manipulation by an unnamed woman, speculated to be Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz.
Corruption Case Bail Proceedings
During the corruption case hearing, the judge expressed frustration over delays by the anti-corruption authority in presenting case records, while Riaz’s lawyer accused them of stalling. Despite the anti-corruption lawyer’s promise for swift record submission, the judge insisted on progress. Eventually, the court was informed of additional charges for the accused’s recovery, which Riaz’s lawyer dismissed as unfounded, defending the contract’s legitimacy. The judge then approved Riaz’s bail.
Before the corruption case resolution, Riaz faced the anti-terrorism court. Police sought a 15-day remand, citing a March 13 FIR for violent acts and interference in governmental functions. Riaz’s defense pointed out his professional obligations as a journalist during the incident and argued for his innocence based on video evidence. Consequently, the judge mandated a five-day investigation, including a photogrammetry test.
Riaz upheld his innocence throughout, asserting that forthcoming evidence would vindicate his non-participation in the cited offenses.
