May 9 cases: Lahore ATC releases detailed verdict in Sherpao bridge case

LAHORE: The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore has issued detailed verdict in the case concerning the burning and encircling of Sherpao brigde on May 9, 2023.

The prosecution failed to present sufficient evidence against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi, leading to his acquittal. The court directed that Qureshi should be released immediately, provided he is not facing arrest in any other case.

The court also ruled in favor of Hamza Azeem, Rana Tanveer, and others, stating that the prosecution had not proven its case against them. Additionally, six accused individuals were acquitted on the grounds of benefit of doubt.

In contrast, Yasmin Rashid, Mian Mahmood Rashid, and Ijaz Chaudhry were found guilty. Umar Sarfaraz Cheema and eight others were also convicted.

The court sentenced the guilty parties to 10 years of imprisonment with rigorous labor under Section 120 B. They were also sentenced to three years imprisonment and a fine of Rs 50,000 under Section 440. All sentences are to run concurrently.

The court acknowledged the admissibility of digital evidence, including footage, audio, and video clips, in identifying Yasmin Rashid and the other accused. The accused were also given credit for time already served in detention.

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