An anti-terrorism court in Islamabad has declared Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Omar Ayub a “proclaimed offender.” The ruling was issued due to his repeated failure to appear before the court.
Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra announced the decision. The court also ordered authorities to block Ayub’s passport and Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC). Additionally, the judge sought details of the politician’s property. This is a standard legal procedure in such declarations.
The legal action stems from a case registered at the Noon Police Station. It involves Ayub’s alleged involvement in a PTI protest on October 4, 2024.
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The protest was part of a series of demonstrations. The PTI organised them to demand an independent judiciary and the release of party founder Imran Khan. The event led to clashes between protesters and law enforcement. Police used tear gas, while some protesters reportedly used slingshots.
The crackdown led to more than a hundred arrests. The case against Ayub was registered under anti-terrorism provisions. This court order escalates the legal challenges for the senior PTI leader. It formalises his status as an absconder in the eyes of the law.
