Special anti-terrorism court indicts Shaheer Sikandar in GHQ attack case

Islamabad, January 8, 2025: A special anti-terrorism court on Wednesday formally indicted Shaheer Sikandar, the latest accused, in connection with the high-profile General Headquarters GHQ attack case. The hearing, conducted at Adiala Jail, was overseen by Judge Amjad Ali Shah, where the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman, who is also an accused in the case, was present along with the other defendants.

With this indictment, all 119 individuals accused in the GHQ attack case have now been formally charged. Shaheer Sikandar’s indictment marked the final step in the legal proceedings for the remaining defendant, as 118 accused had already been indicted in previous hearings.

During the court session, the defence counsel submitted three applications. Omar Ayub, representing one of the accused, requested access to the case records to prepare a proper defence. Meanwhile, Ajmal Sabir and Malik Ansar filed pleas seeking their acquittal from the charges.

The court, after hearing the submissions, directed the defence to present their arguments on these applications at the next hearing. The case has been adjourned until January 13, 2025, when further proceedings will take place.

The GHQ attack, which took place several years ago, has remained a key legal matter, with numerous accused facing charges related to terrorism, conspiracy, and attacks on military institutions. The court proceedings are being closely followed, with the case drawing significant attention due to the involvement of high-profile political figures and its impact on national security.

As the trial continues, legal experts anticipate further developments in the coming hearings.