Imran Khan’s role proved in May 9 riots, Rana Sanaullah said – 33 suspects were handed over to the army for trial

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan’s troubles have increased as Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said that Imran’s role in Jinnah House riots on May 9 has been proved. Meanwhile, Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi and other leaders and former assembly members of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party were reportedly barred from leaving the country on Thursday.

Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said on Friday that 19 suspects in Punjab and 14 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been handed over to the army after attacks on army installations during violent protests in the country on May 9. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, the minister said only 19 accused have been handed over to military courts or military authorities in Punjab and 14 in KP. Out of 499 FIRs, only six FIRs registered in Punjab and four in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are being processed. But such an atmosphere is being created as if everyone is being tried in military courts, the minister said.

Protests started in the country after the arrest of PTI chairman Imran Khan on 9 May. While the protests were underway, social media was flooded with footage of rioting and vandalism at various places, including the Lahore Corps Commander House and the General Headquarters. The army later termed the events of 9 May a “dark chapter” and announced its intention to prosecute the rioters under relevant laws, including two military laws – the Pakistan Army Act and the Official Secrets Act.