Federal Minister for Interior, Rana Sanaullah, stated that various speculations were being made regarding the events of May 9, so it was essential for me to come forward and present the facts.
Addressing a news conference in Islamabad, the Interior Minister revealed that a total of 449 cases were registered across the country in relation to the May 9 incidents. Among these, 88 cases were filed under the Anti-Terrorism Act, while 411 cases were filed under other laws.
He mentioned that in the cases related to countering terrorism, a total of 3,946 individuals were taken into custody nationwide, including 2,588 in Punjab and 1,100 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Furthermore, he stated that in other cases, 5,536 individuals were arrested, out of which 80 percent have been released on bail.
He added that out of the 449 FIRs, only 6 are currently under investigation, including 2 in Punjab and 4 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These cases could potentially be tried in military courts, but an atmosphere is being created as if all cases will be heard in military courts.
Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah stated that out of the total number of suspects, only 19 in Punjab and 14 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have been handed over to military authorities. There are no such cases elsewhere.
He mentioned that military officials will inspect the cases, but the entire trial will not be shifted. They will determine where the Military Act or Official Secrets Act is applicable in each case.
Providing an example, he explained that if out of 300 suspects in an ATC case, there are 10 individuals who have violated the Military or Official Secrets Act, the military trial will be limited to their specific charges.
He emphasized that the politics of hatred had become a cancer in Pakistan’s politics and society, which included both internal and external facilitators.
