Lahore ATC adjourns bail hearings for PTI’s Qureshi, Cheema in May 9 riots cases

F.P. Report

LAHORE: Bail applications of senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Omar Sarfraz Cheema, currently in custody in connection with the May 9 riots, were heard in an anti-terrorism court in Lahore on Monday.

However, the proceedings were adjourned due to the prosecution’s request for more time.

Qureshi has filed bail applications in two cases related to the torching of police vehicles near Jinnah House during the violent protests following the arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan on May 9, 2023.

The court, presided over by Administrative Judge Manzar Ali Gul, deferred the hearing until July 14 to allow the prosecution to prepare arguments.

Omar Sarfraz Cheema, meanwhile, has sought bail in three separate cases, all involving allegations of arson targeting police vehicles near Zaman Park, Mughalpura, and Jinnah House. He is accused of direct involvement in planning or inciting these acts during the May 9 protests.

The prosecution cited busy trial schedules and sought additional time, prompting the court to adjourn the hearing until July 12.

Both leaders are currently incarcerated and have filed their bail requests from prison.

It is worth noting that the court has already approved their bail in another case registered at the Shadman police station about public disorder. However, they remain in custody due to other pending charges.

The court has directed the prosecution to complete their arguments on the bail applications in the next hearings.