Islamabad: Pakistan's former Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) chief and spy Faiz Hameed, who has been a close aide of jailed ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan,
has been sentenced to 14 years in jail by a country's military court after he was court-martialed last year in August.
Why Pak Sentenced Ex-ISI Chief To 14 Years
Pakistan's former spy chief Faiz Hameed was found guilty on multiple charges, including violating the Official Secrets Act and engaging in political activities.
According to a statement by the army, the process of Field General Court Martial (FGCM) against Hameed was initiated on August 12, 2024, under provisions of the Pakistan Army Act, and continued for 15 months.
What Are The Charges Against Faiz Hameed
- Engaging in political activities.
- Violation of the Official Secrets Act in a manner "detrimental to the safety and interests of the State".
- Misuse of authority & government resources.
- Causing wrongful loss to individuals.
The Pakistan Army said that after lengthy and laborious legal proceedings, the accused has been found guilty on all charges and sentenced to 14 years rigorous imprisonment by the court.
Faiz Hameed, First ex-ISI Chief in Pakistan to Be Convicted and Sentenced
It is for the first time that a former chief of the powerful Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been convicted and sentenced. He served as the Director General of the ISI from 2019 to 2021.
He last served as Commander of the XXXI Corps before taking premature retirement in December 2022 after Asim Munir took over as the army chief. Hameed was considered close to the then Army chief Gen Qamar Bajwa.
The army said that the Court-Martial complied with all legal provisions and that the accused was "afforded with all legal rights, including (the) rights of (a) defence team of his choice."
Can Faiz Hameed Challenge His Sentence?
Pakistan Army said that the convict has the right of appeal at a relevant forum after conviction.
"Involvement of the convict in fomenting vested political agitation and instability in cohorts with political elements and in certain other matters is separately being dealt with," the army said.
Hameed, a former lieutenant general, was arrested in connection with a petition filed by Top City housing society's chief executive officer in the Supreme Court last year, wherein he was accused of land grabbing and stealing valuables from the owner of a private housing society during a raid.
However, the Supreme Court asked the Pakistan Army to investigate complaints against him in the Top City case. The army began the court-martial process against the former spy chief based on these complaints.
Pakistan Minister Says Hameed's Sentencing A 'Historic Verdict'
Speaking to Geo News, Information Minister Atta Tarar described the verdict as a "historic", saying the decision strengthens the rule of law and accountability mechanisms in Pakistan.
Did Faiz Hameed Have Connections With Jailed ex-PM Imran Khan’s Party?
Pakistan Interior Minister said that red lines had been crossed and political interference had taken place. He said the former ISI chief had acted as a political adviser to PTI and provided Khan's party with "full political support."
The information minister further added that the decision would reinforce the rule of law and the country's accountability mechanisms.
He added that the trial was fair, saying Hameed was given a full opportunity to defend himself, including the chance to present evidence and witnesses in his favour.
Tarar said that investigations into Hameed's alleged involvement in political matters were still ongoing and would continue.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif was more cautious in his reaction. He said the nation will face the consequences of decisions made under Gen (retd) Bajwa and the ex-spymaster.
With inputs from PTI
