An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Rawalpindi has issued a third non-bailable arrest warrant for Aleema Khan. She is the sister of PTI founder Imran Khan. The case relates to the November 26 protest organized by PTI in 2022. The court ordered the police to arrest Aleema and bring her to court on October 22. She has repeatedly failed to appear despite earlier court orders.
Judge Amjad Ali Shah expressed anger over Aleema’s continued absence. He noted that the defence lawyer had promised she would appear. The judge also issued an arrest warrant for her guarantor. Additionally, the court ordered the seizure of the guarantor’s bonds. A show cause notice has been sent to explain the failure to produce her.
Read more: Court Issues Non-Bailable Arrest Warrants for Aleema Khan
The judge further directed that the guarantor’s submitted property documents be sent to the deputy commissioner of Rawalpindi. These documents will be verified to ensure legal accountability. The court appears to be tightening measures after several delays. Authorities now face pressure to enforce attendance in high-profile protest-related cases.
Aleema was formally charged on October 15 along with nine other accused. Their earlier request to skip court appearances was denied on October 8. At that time, bailable warrants were issued. With no compliance, the court has now escalated to non-bailable warrants. This reflects the court’s firm stance on the case.
Read more: ATC Sentences Top PTI Leaders to 10 Years in May 9 Riots Case
The November 26 protest saw PTI leaders and supporters march from Peshawar to Islamabad. They were demanding the release of Imran Khan. The protest turned violent near Islamabad, leading to injuries and multiple police cases. These cases include terrorism, rioting, and property damage. Several top PTI leaders, including Imran and Bushra Bibi, are also named in related cases.