ISLAMABAD: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Islamabad on Monday reprimanded police officials for failing to appear during the bail hearing of lawyer and human rights activist Imaan Mazari and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha.
ATC Judge Abul Hasnat Muhammad Zulqarnain was hearing a case against the couple over their alleged involvement in a violent protest.
Last month, the Supreme Court suspended the couple’s sentences in a case involving controversial tweets. It also granted them bail against surety bonds of Rs200,000 each until the Islamabad High Court decides the pending case.
However, police rearrested the couple in a separate case on the same day. They are currently incarcerated at Adiala Jail.
Judge Summons DSP
During Monday’s hearing, the judge expressed anger after being informed that the investigating officer (IO) was out of the city.
He summoned the deputy superintendent of police (DSP) to appear before the court in person.
Defence counsel Riasat Ali told the court that he was ready to present detailed arguments.
The DSP appeared shortly afterwards. When he began speaking in English, Judge Zulqarnain told him, “Speak to me in Urdu.”
The DSP said the investigating officer was out of the city, according to his information. He later produced a printed copy of a WhatsApp message claiming that the investigator had travelled to Gilgit-Baltistan.
The court rejected the WhatsApp copy and directed the DSP to produce the original document.
Court Threatens Action
During the proceedings, the judge ordered officials to bring handcuffs into the courtroom.
He also directed the security in-charge to keep the DSP there until the court made a decision.
“I will send you and the SP to jail for six months,” the judge warned, directing officials to place the relevant evidence on record.
The judge also criticised police for failing to provide documentary evidence confirming the investigating officer’s whereabouts.
He further called for the establishment of a judicial force capable of immediately implementing court orders.
The court adjourned the hearing until October 13.
Judge Zulqarnain said the court would also issue a decision regarding the investigating officer’s absence.
