On October 6, 2025, an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad issued arrest warrants for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders Omar Ayub, Sheikh Waqas Akram, and Zartaj Gul. The warrants, ordered by Judge Tahir Abbas Supra, stem from the Sangjani rally case. The court demands their appearance for further proceedings.
The ATC rejected Omar Ayub’s request for exemption from appearing, noting that none of the accused attended any hearings. PTI’s legal team, including advocates Sardar Masroof, Amna Ali, and Murtaza Turi, represented the leaders. The court adjourned the case until October 20.
This follows a July 2025 Sargodha ATC ruling issuing warrants for 57 PTI leaders, including Omar Ayub, in the May 9 riots case. Other named figures include Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar, Rana Bilal Ijaz, and Mohammad Ahmed Chattha. Witness testimonies concluded, but the accused failed to attend the final arguments, prompting the issuance of warrants. That hearing was postponed to the next day.
Read: Lahore ATC Dismisses Omar Ayub’s Bail in May 9 Violence Cases
The warrants signal escalating legal pressure on PTI amid Pakistan’s tense political climate. The non-appearance of key figures, such as Ayub, the leader of the National Assembly Opposition, could fuel further scrutiny. Moreover, these cases highlight ongoing clashes between the PTI and authorities, which are impacting the party’s strategy.
