Shah Mahmood Qureshi Charged in May 9 Violence Case

Shah Mahmood Qureshi, a senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and former foreign minister, was charged by an anti-terrorism court for his alleged role in the burning down of a police station during the May 9 violence. The court ordered the prosecution to present witnesses at the next hearing on July 22.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi, a top leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former foreign minister, has been formally charged by an anti-terrorism court for his involvement in the May 9 violence, which saw a police station set ablaze.

Qureshi, 68, was transferred from Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail to Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore under tight security. The court has filed multiple charges against him, including arson, pertaining to incidents at the Shadman police station.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for July 22 and has directed the prosecution to present witnesses. Qureshi, who pleaded not guilty, claims the case is fabricated due to his loyalty to PTI founder Imran Khan. His indictment coincides with the government's decision to ban PTI for alleged anti-state activities following the arrest of Khan and the ensuing May 9 riots.

(With inputs from agencies.)