Court to indict PM Shahbaz, Hamza on Sept 7 in Rs16bn money laundering case

[MenInG]

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Wednesday decided not to prosecute Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz in the Rs16 billion money laundering case three days before a special Lahore court was scheduled to frame charges against the PML-N leaders.

According to a written application submitted in court, the FIA director general (DG), via the investigating officer, told Special Prosecutor Sikander Zulqarnain Saleem not to appear in court as the "accused in the case are going to be elected the prime minister of Pakistan and chief minister of Punjab".

"The concerned quarters are not interested to prosecute the accused persons," it stated, requesting that these instructions be made part of the case record.

Earlier this week, FIA former director Mohammad Rizwan, who probed the charges against Shehbaz and his son, died of a heart attack.


The FIA had booked PM Shehbaz and his sons, Hamza and Suleman, in November 2020 under sections 419, 420, 468, 471, 34 and 109 of Prevention of Corruption Act and read with 3/4 of Anti Money Laundering Act. Suleman Shehbaz is absconding in the UK.

Fourteen others had also been named in the FIR under sections 5(2) and 5(3) (criminal misconduct) of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The special court had on Jan 27 granted pre-arrest bail to Shehbaz and Hamza in the case.

After the agency submitted its request yesterday, the court took the application on record and annexed it with the case.

Meanwhile, Saleem said that the prosecution was stopped from appearing in the case as Shehbaz and Hamza had assumed public office now. "FIA officials have expressed no interest in the trial against Shehbaz, Hamza and others," he added.

The move comes just three days before the court was to indict the premier and the Punjab chief minister on May 14. During the previous hearing, the court had instructed the premier and others to ensure their presence at the next hearing as no further adjournments would be made.

"It is made clear that on [the] next date of hearing, charge shall be framed and all the accused shall ensure their personal attendance," the written order had said.

Charges against Shehbaz, Hamza
The FIA had in December 2021 submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza to a special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs16 billion in the sugar scam case.

"The investigation team has detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions," according to an FIA report submitted to the court.

The amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity, the report added.

This amount (Rs16bn) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of the Shehbaz family). The money received from the accounts of low-wage employees by Shehbaz was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for the beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had alleged.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

DAWN

 

[MenInG]

 

[MenInG]

No wonder Shehbaz and Chalees Chor went out of the country with such audacity because they knew nothing would happen.

 

[daytrader]

Shame on the chor gang. What happened to neutrality of institutions? This will strengthen Imran Khan's narrative

 

[Extra_Cover]

Shameful.

We the ordinary citizens of Pakistan have no worth (to be honest). We have been told quite bluntly in the past couple of months that the royal families in power have immunity against any crimes they commit and it is our responsibility to accept this as a fact and carry on with our normal lives like its normal. Every Pakistani should accept that the descended royal families have royal blood in their veins which gives them the autonomy to rule nobody like us with impunity.

Their corrupt practice and system is designed in such a way that even if the significant majority in the country wants one thing to be achieved it won't be able to as we are made this powerless. Our voices and mass demonstration actually don't have any effect on the royal thick skin. These royal families are so thick that it would look you in the eyes whilst looting you and you can't do anything about it because the public has effectively been made powerless. All power to these royal families.

 

[daytrader]

Shameful.

We the ordinary citizens of Pakistan have no worth (to be honest). We have been told quite bluntly in the past couple of months that the royal families in power have immunity against any crimes they commit and it is our responsibility to accept this as a fact and carry on with our normal lives like its normal. Every Pakistani should accept that the descended royal families have royal blood in their veins which gives them the autonomy to rule nobody like us with impunity.

Their corrupt practice and system is designed in such a way that even if the significant majority in the country wants one thing to be achieved it won't be able to as we are made this powerless. Our voices and mass demonstration actually don't have any effect on the royal thick skin. These royal families are so thick that it would look you in the eyes whilst looting you and you can't do anything about it because the public has effectively been made powerless. All power to these royal families.

Pakistan hasn't discovered democracy yet. We are still living under Feudalism and the two most powerful families have now tied the knot by a marriage of convenience. Only a peasant rising can change this system

 

[Mamoon]

Shame on the chor gang. What happened to neutrality of institutions? This will strengthen Imran Khan's narrative

Imran’s narrative belongs in the garbage. He is done and dusted, he is the only PM in Pakistan history to get voted out and that will remain his legacy.

He got booted out and he will never become the PM again. He had his chance and he blew it, he has to live with this regret for the rest of his days.

Secondly, instead of focusing on the allegations against Shehbaz and Hamza, he should focus on clearing his name in the foreign funding case and explain Farah Khan’s corruption and why she fled the country as soon as Imran got kicked out in humiliation fashion.

 

[MenInG]

Imran’s narrative belongs in the garbage. He is done and dusted, he is the only PM in Pakistan history to get voted out and that will remain his legacy.

He got booted out and he will never become the PM again. He had his chance and he blew it, he has to live with this regret for the rest of his days.

Secondly, instead of focusing on the allegations against Shehbaz and Hamza, he should focus on clearing his name in the foreign funding case and explain Farah Khan’s corruption and why she fled the country as soon as Imran got kicked out in humiliation fashion.

Do you have any comments about this case. Your narrative on IK is not new.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Imran’s narrative belongs in the garbage. He is done and dusted, he is the only PM in Pakistan history to get voted out and that will remain his legacy.

He got booted out and he will never become the PM again. He had his chance and he blew it, he has to live with this regret for the rest of his days.

Secondly, instead of focusing on the allegations against Shehbaz and Hamza, he should focus on clearing his name in the foreign funding case and explain Farah Khan’s corruption and why she fled the country as soon as Imran got kicked out in humiliation fashion.

You only had to answer a one line post and even then you danced around it nimbly and landed somewhere totally irrelevant. The question was: what happened to the neutrality of institutions? Did you read the OP article?

 

[moghul]

Shame on people who are still supporting these chalis chore, really.

Its not about politics , its about being patriotic.

Rather than being behind the bar, these crooks are enjoying vacation is London while people in Pakistan are suffering with heat wave and no electricity.

Its a shame they still have support from some heartless people who have gone crazy in their personal grudge again IK but happy to see country being destroyed by this gang of criminals .

 

[Hermoine Green]

Wasnt it expected? Although i saw in news that Court has rejected FIA letter and they will continue hearing at 14th May.

So, one death of Mr. Rizwan, and all FIA is trembling in fear now

 

[Hermoine Green]

Imran’s narrative belongs in the garbage. He is done and dusted, he is the only PM in Pakistan history to get voted out and that will remain his legacy.

He got booted out and he will never become the PM again. He had his chance and he blew it, he has to live with this regret for the rest of his days.

Secondly, instead of focusing on the allegations against Shehbaz and Hamza, he should focus on clearing his name in the foreign funding case and explain Farah Khan’s corruption and why she fled the country as soon as Imran got kicked out in humiliation fashion.

Still no case has been filed against Farah, oh wait, why? Because his husband is PMLN MNA, and Sussar is PMLN MPA. But yeah, Imran Khan is responsible for her wealth. Its like some one say, Mamoon is responsible for the wealth of his neighbour's friend. LOL.

Sometimes, you talk like your brain cells are dead.

Regarding foreign funding case, you already know the TRUTH.

 

[Bewal Express]

Imran’s narrative belongs in the garbage. He is done and dusted, he is the only PM in Pakistan history to get voted out and that will remain his legacy.

He got booted out and he will never become the PM again. He had his chance and he blew it, he has to live with this regret for the rest of his days.

Secondly, instead of focusing on the allegations against Shehbaz and Hamza, he should focus on clearing his name in the foreign funding case and explain Farah Khan’s corruption and why she fled the country as soon as Imran got kicked out in humiliation fashion.

What a pathetic post to avoid the humiliation of supporting a criminal. Your clown as PM has shown in 3 weeks why the Mafia has destroyed PK.

 

[Kianig89]

Don't worry the end is near these crooks days are numbered have a little patience

 

[Champ_Pal]

Don't worry the end is near these crooks days are numbered have a little patience

Crooks are back in power. How can their end be near?

 

[IMMY69]

Crooks are back in power. How can their end be near?

Because we're in the end game now.

It's do or die

 

[Hermoine Green]

Crooks are back in power. How can their end be near?

And sometimes, i worry about it. Everything is in their control and its NOT easy to win elections under such circumstances.

 

[Stewie]

I see Mamoon is as usual trolling Pakistanis here.

Has anyone ever gotten a straight answer from the guy on things he supports that are also extremely flawed and broken and corrupt?

This is just ridiculous. Pardons galore, let the loot maar and thievery commence anew!

I dont not encourage violence but when it comes to such people getting away scot free, I wonder why nobody has decided to take matters into their own hands.

 

[Sher Khan]

This story is not true and has been clarified by a newspaper. The name of the prosecutor has been asked to be changed since the previous one passed away.

The case itself is still being pursued.

 

[Bewal Express]

This story is not true and has been clarified by a newspaper. The name of the prosecutor has been asked to be changed since the previous one passed away.

The case itself is still being pursued.

Rubbish. The investigating officer you talk about was already off the case before his death and this case had a special prosecuter. We are all here and we will see if they go to jail. The money laundering isn't an allegation, its a fact. The full trail was found and the Sharifs admitted it was their accounts it went into. This is an open and shut case like the flats.

 

[Bewal Express]

I see Mamoon is as usual trolling Pakistanis here.

Has anyone ever gotten a straight answer from the guy on things he supports that are also extremely flawed and broken and corrupt?

This is just ridiculous. Pardons galore, let the loot maar and thievery commence anew!

I dont not encourage violence but when it comes to such people getting away scot free, I wonder why nobody has decided to take matters into their own hands.

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] believes that only a criminal can be PM. He calls criminals proper PMs.

 

[DRsohail]

Imran’s narrative belongs in the garbage. He is done and dusted, he is the only PM in Pakistan history to get voted out and that will remain his legacy.

He got booted out and he will never become the PM again. He had his chance and he blew it, he has to live with this regret for the rest of his days.

Secondly, instead of focusing on the allegations against Shehbaz and Hamza, he should focus on clearing his name in the foreign funding case and explain Farah Khan’s corruption and why she fled the country as soon as Imran got kicked out in humiliation fashion.

Taking screenshot when he becomes PM, or I will bump it.

 

[DRsohail]

B sharam log Ha ye,

 

[daytrader]

FIA plea for not prosecuting PM Shehbaz, CM Hamza turned down

FIA had earlier decided not to pursue money laundering case against premier and Punjab CM

LAHORE:
A special court central judge summoned Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz by May 14 to frame charges against them despite Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) earlier decision not to prosecute the alleged money laundering case against them.

Shehbaz and his sons -- Hamza and Suleman -- were booked by the FIA in November 2020 under Sections 419, 420, 468, 471, 34 and 109 of the PPC and 5(2) and 5(3) of the Prevention of Corruption Act and r/w 3/4 of Anti Money Laundering Act.

Fourteen others were also named in the FIR under Sections 5(2) and 5(3) (criminal misconduct) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, read with 3/4 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

Read More: PM may be indicted in money laundering case on May 1

In a detailed order released on May 12, it was learnt that on April 11 an “application for intimation” was submitted before the court by FIA’s special prosecutor Sikandar Zulqarnain Saleem contending that DG FIA through Investigation Officer (IO) of the case conveyed to him not to appear in the case as accused are going to be elected as prime minister and chief minister.

It said that the concerned quarters are not interested to prosecute the accused persons. He further requested to make this application part of the record. However, the court adjourned the proceedings by April 27 for the framing of charges.

However, on April 27, PM Shehbaz sought exemption from personal appearance, owing to a meeting with the cabinet committee as a result of which the charge could not be framed. Then the court fixed May 14 for framing charges.

It is pertinent to mention that the judge was hearing pre-arrest bails of PM Shehbaz Sharif and newly elect Punjab CM Hamza Shehbaz in an alleged money laundering case of Rs.16 billion.

Earlier in the day, the FIA decided to not pursue the money laundering case against PM Shehbaz and others. Special Court Judge Ijaz Hassan Awan issued the written order at the request of the agency's prosecutor and also made the request by the FIA prosecution team a part of the case record.

The written order issued by the court states that following the previous hearing of the case on April 11, FIA Special Prosecutor Sikandar Zulqarnain filed a petition of 'no interest' in the trial.

Zulqarnain further stated that DG FIA had asked the investigating officer to not appear in the case against the premier.

“The concerned FIA officials show no interest in the trial against Shehbaz Sharif, Hamza Shahbaz and others,” the prosecutor prayed.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2356295/fia-plea-for-not-prosecuting-pm-shehbaz-cm-hamza-turned-down

 

[cric_man]

Guess FIA is backtracking...

Was listening to Dr Moeed Pirzada's recent vlog. He read a hand written letter submitted by FIA special prosecutor to the courts on April 17th where it was "alleged" the concerned quarters do not want the cases to proceed. He commented that reading the verbage and syntax of that letter lends him to believe that most of the people in charge of prosecution either have sub par intelligence i-e cannot even coherently write a simple letter or intentionally put forward weak prosecution case to let these crooks go free. And that is what they want. They don't want the cases dropped rather they want to be acquitted by the courts.

So on one hand we have Panama Papers JIT, where the investigators meticulously collected and documented all wrong doings. And then we have these jokers that would cockup open/shut cases where the defendant has openly admitted to money laundering.

 

[MenInG]

Guess FIA is backtracking...

Was listening to Dr Moeed Pirzada's recent vlog. He read a hand written letter submitted by FIA special prosecutor to the courts on April 17th where it was "alleged" the concerned quarters do not want the cases to proceed. He commented that reading the verbage and syntax of that letter lends him to believe that most of the people in charge of prosecution either have sub par intelligence i-e cannot even coherently write a simple letter or intentionally put forward weak prosecution case to let these crooks go free. And that is what they want. They don't want the cases dropped rather they want to be acquitted by the courts.

So on one hand we have Panama Papers JIT, where the investigators meticulously collected and documented all wrong doings. And then we have these jokers that would cockup open/shut cases where the defendant has openly admitted to money laundering.

Been told to do.

Basically criminals now have a way out.

 

[Bewal Express]

These guys think that all PKs support criminals like [MENTION=135038]Major[/MENTION] and [MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] where there is no law and all the mafia get a free pass. I totally agree that they want an aquital and not a stop of the case because they know that if IK comes to power they will have nowhere to hide unless it's an aquital. This is where the SC should step in like with a Panama scandal and monitor the cases. But the SC is bar a few judges part of the mafia and no way will it step in. Absolutely disgusting. But just like the conspiracy against IK has gone pear shaped, so will this.

 

[silentkiller187]

LAHORE:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was reported on Friday to have denied accepting any sympathy from those who forged cases against him and his family.

The premier's point of view was shared by federal law minister Azam Nazir Tarar in a statement made in response to media reports stating that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had decided to not pursue the money laundering case against PM Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz Sharif.

“We will defend the cases and will get justice on merit,” Tarar said quoting the PM while addressing the legal fraternity at a welcome event hosted following his appointment as the law minister by the Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA), representatives of Pakistan Bar Council, Punjab Bar Council and other bar councils at the LHC premises.

Later, speaking to the media, Tarar stated that ex-PM Mian Nawaz Sharif had categorically stated that early elections could not be possible without taking allied parties into confidence. “The matter is being discussed in London and we will also discuss it in Pakistan,” he added.

Acknowledging the difficulties currently being faced by the government, he pointed to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) failings, adding that the government remained committed to putting the country on the right track.

Read FIA to not pursue money laundering case against PM Shehbaz, Hamza

Address to legal community

The law minister at his visit to the LHCBA approved a grant of Rs20 million to LHCBA’s representatives in recognition for their efforts in resolving the problems of the legal community and added a request to clear all pending salaries of the employees.

He said he held lawyers in a high regard and that PM Shehbaz Sharif had clearly directed him to keep “prompt dispensation of justice” a top priority.

Tarar also announced plans for the construction of a judicial complex where 30 central federal courts will be housed. Claiming that most of the work had already been completed on a lawyer’s housing society, he promised that allocation letters would soon be dispatched.

Referring to the LHCBA’s diagnostic centre, he said that the provincial government was to take over to ensure the provision of quality facilities.

He furthered that a draft for the Lawyers Protection Act had almost been completed in consultation with representatives of bar councils.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/235643...-accept-sympathy-over-forged-cases-says-tarar

 

[cric_man]

Hanif Abbasi got life imprisonment for his role in ephedrine case. He got 8 week bail to supposedly get angiography done by Lahore High Court. He never went back to jail nor did the esteemed courts inquired about him. He is now made advisor to the PM...

 

[MenInG]

Hanif Abbasi got life imprisonment for his role in ephedrine case. He got 8 week bail to supposedly get angiography done by Lahore High Court. He never went back to jail nor did the esteemed courts inquired about him. He is now made advisor to the PM...

I think you will find that the PDM supporters are themselves finding it difficult to defend this. Most hoping for a mercy killing for this government now.

 

[Bewal Express]

Hanif Abbasi got life imprisonment for his role in ephedrine case. He got 8 week bail to supposedly get angiography done by Lahore High Court. He never went back to jail nor did the esteemed courts inquired about him. He is now made advisor to the PM...

At least he isnt a drug dealer,oh wait.

 

[MenInG]

A new prosecutor was appointed on Friday by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in the money laundering case against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz.

A notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice dated May 13 states: "Farooq Bajwa, is hereby appointed as special public prosecutor in the case [...] with immediate effect on the terms and conditions which will be settled separately by the FIA with the said advocate."

A special court in Lahore is set to indict the prime minister and his son in the Rs16 billion money laundering case on Saturday (tomorrow).

During the previous hearing, the court had instructed the premier and others to ensure their presence at the next hearing as no further adjournments would be made. However, PM Shehbaz is currently in London to meet Nawaz Sharif as part of a PML-N delegation.

 

[Kriketer]

People who support these criminals are the ones whose lifafaz started rolling since chuurs took over. One can connect the dots. Not going to last for long, they all ll end up behind bars along with their beloved leaders aka criminals

 

[Bewal Express]

A new prosecutor was appointed on Friday by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in the money laundering case against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz.

A notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice dated May 13 states: "Farooq Bajwa, is hereby appointed as special public prosecutor in the case [...] with immediate effect on the terms and conditions which will be settled separately by the FIA with the said advocate."

A special court in Lahore is set to indict the prime minister and his son in the Rs16 billion money laundering case on Saturday (tomorrow).

During the previous hearing, the court had instructed the premier and others to ensure their presence at the next hearing as no further adjournments would be made. However, PM Shehbaz is currently in London to meet Nawaz Sharif as part of a PML-N delegation.

So the new guy came to mess up the case. Badniyaat losers. Bajwa and Nadeem. Thanks

 

[Hermoine Green]

So the new guy came to mess up the case. Badniyaat losers. Bajwa and Nadeem. Thanks

Shehbaz was supposed to appear in the court today, but guess what he has extended his stay in London for a day more

And no one can do anything

 

[Abdulm123]

The FIA has its hands tied back by the military establishment, they wont be able to do a damn thing against their puppet.

 

[MenInG]

The indictment of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son, Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz, in a Rs16 billion money laundering case was delayed again on Saturday after the premier submitted an application to be exempted from the hearing.

A special court in Lahore had, last month, directed Shehbaz and Hamza to ensure their presence at the next date of hearing (May 14) for the framing of charges against them.

When the hearing resumed today, their lawyer, Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz, submitted an application on Shehbaz's behalf, seeking exemption from appearance.

The application, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, stated that Shehbaz was scheduled to return from his visit to the United Kingdom on May 13 but was delayed since an appointment with his medical consultant could not be set up before 12:30pm today.

Shehbaz was a cancer survivor and a patient of chronic backache and his medical checkup had been long overdue since the previous PTI government did not allow him to fly abroad, it stated.

The application further stated that Shehbaz also had to reschedule his return so he could visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to offer his condolences on the passing away of the country's president, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

"The non-appearance of the petitioner is neither malafide nor intentional, rather, the same is on the account of the above said reason," it added.

Subsequently, Presiding Judge of the Special Court (Central-I) Ijaz Hassan Awan accepted the application and extended Shehbaz and Hamza's pre-arrest bails till May 21.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had booked Shehbaz and his sons Hamza and Suleman in November 2020 under sections 419, 420, 468, 471, 34 and 109 of Prevention of Corruption Act and r/w 3/4 of Anti Money Laundering Act. Suleman Shehbaz is in the UK and has been declared an absconder.

Fourteen others have also been named in the FIR under sections 5(2) and 5(3) (criminal misconduct) of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The special court had on Jan 27 granted pre-arrest bail to Shehbaz and Hamza in the case.

Hearing
Earlier during the hearing, Judge Awan observed that the proceedings could once again not move forward because of the exemption application.

FIA prosecutor Farooq Bajwa said the agency had no objection to the application and pointed out that the presence of all the suspects was necessary.

He informed the court that it was his first appearance in the case.

Meanwhile, Shehbaz and Hamza's lawyer, Pervaiz, argued that all the companies named in the case were registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).

Shehbaz had never been the director or shareholder of the companies, he said, arguing that the case was registered during the previous government's tenure without any investigation.

"None of the witnesses who testified pleaded guilty. The former interior minister had the testimonies written in his presence. Shehbaz and Hamza were in jail at the time."

The judge noted that the FIR mentioned a "cash boy" to which Pervaiz responded that his clients were accused of laundering money through various accounts.

However, there was nothing on record against Shehbaz that would prove the case, he argued.

The FIR was based not on facts but "wishes" and a "baseless and fake" case was registered at the previous government's behest, the lawyer said. "The FIA has ​​tried to mislead the court by making a case on the basis of malice. A media trial of Shehbaz and Hamza was held."

He repeated that Shehbaz had no connection with the companies' employees or their accounts.

"Masroor Anwar was an employee who used to withdraw cash but under which law is that a crime? NAB (National Accountability Bureau) has also filed a reference after detailed investigation.

"Speaking of Maqsood Chaprasi, how many times will a suspect be sent to jail on the same charge?"

NAB had not said anywhere after investigating that Masroor Anwar gave money to Shehbaz, Pervaiz continued.

He told the court that the FIA had not submitted a challan to a banking court and when it feared action would be taken against it, it submitted an interim challan.

The FIA did not submit a challan for seven months because it had no evidence and was using delaying tactics, he argued.

"The purpose was only to hold a media trial. The previous government's purpose was to make Shehbaz and Hamza appear in the court in one case. The FIR was lodged for character assassination and the political narrative."

Suleman used to do business which was not a crime under any Pakistani law, he contended, to which the judge replied that Suleman was an absconder.

However, the lawyer argued that it should be seen who declared Suleman an absconder since the special court had not done so.

"Benami transactions were not a crime prior to the Benami Transaction (Prohibition) Act 2017 which was introduced in 2017," he added.

The judge then questioned how a clerk could open a bank account saying he had a sugar business.

Sugarcane traders also said the same when they opened a bank account and it was not a crime, Pervaiz responded.

The FIA was referring to fake accounts, the judge observed. The lawyer responded that if it was a case of fake accounts, then it did not come under the FIA's jurisdiction.

A person cannot be arrested twice in the same case on the basis of the same accusation, he said.

Subsequently, the court directed the counsel to complete his arguments at the next hearing.

Charges against Hamza, Shehbaz

The FIA had in December 2021 submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza to a special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs16bn in the sugar scam case.

"The investigation team has detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions," according to an FIA report submitted to the court.

The amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity, the report added.

This amount (Rs16bn) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of Shehbaz family), it claimed. The money received from the accounts of low-wage employees by Shehbaz was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had alleged.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

DAWN

 

[Bewal Express]

Shehbaz was supposed to appear in the court today, but guess what he has extended his stay in London for a day more

And no one can do anything

[MENTION=135038]Major[/MENTION] I know you have disappeared these days. What in the constitution allows the Crime Minister to above the law

 

[Hermoine Green]

[MENTION=135038]Major[/MENTION] I know you have disappeared these days. What in the constitution allows the Crime Minister to above the law

Furthermore, before coming to Pakistan he will visit UAE first.

And yes, if someone gloat that FIA has appointed new prosecutor, they should know that the new prosecutor is a member of Mr. Tarar (PMLN) chamber )

 

[Bewal Express]

Furthermore, before coming to Pakistan he will visit UAE first.

And yes, if someone gloat that FIA has appointed new prosecutor, they should know that the new prosecutor is a member of Mr. Tarar (PMLN) chamber )

These crooks are predictable

 

[topspin]

These crooks are predictable

Lets see what Dr Shahid Masood thinks first.

 

[Bewal Express]

Lets see what Dr Shahid Masood thinks first.

Why? Is he still around?

 

[topspin]

Why? Is he still around?

Because we need his insight before anyone jumps to conclusions which is what everyone is doing here.

If I had to guess, I believe Shehbaz is guilty but why didn't IK pursue it after he was elected in 2018?

 

[Bewal Express]

Because we need his insight before anyone jumps to conclusions which is what everyone is doing here.

If I had to guess, I believe Shehbaz is guilty but why didn't IK pursue it after he was elected in 2018?

No guessing required my friend. This is an open and shut case. Can a chaprasi have billions in his account? Where did they come from and why? This drama has gone on for too long for even the blind and deaf not to see and hear what's going on. The establishment are in with criminals but people have lost faith in them and they are cornered.

 

[MenInG]

LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will appear before the special court hearing a money laundering case against him and Chief Minister Punjab Hamza Shahbaz on Saturday (tomorrow), ARY NEWS reported.

According to sources, Shehbaz Sharif will appear before special judge central after he had skipped the previous four proceedings to indict him in the money laundering case.

During the last hearing, the prime minister approached the Lahore court seeking an exemption from personal appearance in the money laundering case.

PM Shehbaz has submitted an application to Lahore special court through his counsel advocate Amjad Pervez. The plea stated that his client couldn’t turn up before court as Shehbaz Sharif was in London on a private visit for his medical checkup.

He, therefore, requested the court to grant him exemption from personal appearance.

The court then granted Shehbaz Sharif an exemption from personal appearance in the money laundering case and adjourned the hearing till May 21.

FIA refuses to pursue trial against Shehbaz

Earlier, it emerged that Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had refused to persue a trial into the money laundering case against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Hamza Shahbaz.

While detailing messaging from the top official of the FIA, the special prosecutor said that he was barred from the DG FIA from appearing before the court hearing the money laundering case against Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shahbaz.

Special Judge Central Aijaz Hasan led the hearing today where Special Prosecutor of the FIA Sikander Zulqarnain submitted that he has been asked by the DG FIA through an investigation officer to leave the case

“It was conveyed that the DG no longer wanted to pursue the case,” he said in his written request which was later made part of the record of the case by the court.

The judge rejected the FIA’s plea and directed the younger Sharif and Hamza Shahbaz to appear before the court on May 14 for indictment proceedings.

ARY

 

[MenInG]

LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza Shahbaz arrived in the special court central for their hearing in the money-laundering case today, Geo News reported.

The father-son duo was accompanied by Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah amid tight security around the court. They are likely to be indicted in the Rs16 billion money laundering today.

Earlier, the FIA's special court had issued an order that it will indict PM Shehbaz and CM Punjab Hamza on May 14; however, it was delayed as the newly appointed prosecutor sought time for preparation.

Read more: Hamza Shehbaz not CM anymore; there is no govt in Punjab, says analyst

It is pertinent to mention here that the special court in Lahore had summoned the father-son duo for their indictment in the case last Saturday but it was deferred due to the premier's foreign tour.

The court had to indict the father-son duo and others allegedly involved in the case in April, but due to the absence of PM Shehbaz, the process was delayed.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has barred the authorities from making postings and transfers in high-profile cases. The directives from the top court came during the hearing of a suo moto case.

On Wednesday, CJP Ata Bandial took the notice of perceived interference in the "independence of the prosecution branch in the performance of its powers and duties for the investigation and prosecution of pending criminal matters involving persons in authority in the government".

The chief justice took notice of the perceived interference on the recommendations of a judge belonging to the Supreme Court of Pakistan, the statement issued by the apex court had said.

The case

In December 2021, the FIA had submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza before the special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs16 billion in the sugar scam case.

According to the FIA report submitted to the court, the investigation team has "detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions."

Read more: PM Shehbaz 'requests' business community to present solutions to Pakistan's economic woes

The report added that the amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity.

This amount (Rs16 billion) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of Shehbaz family), it claimed. The money received from the accounts of low-wage employees by Shehbaz was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for the beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had alleged.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

Geo

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son, Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz, appeared in a special court in Lahore on Saturday for the hearing of a Rs16 billion money laundering case.

They were set to be indicted in the case during the previous hearing on May 14 but it was delayed because Shehbaz was in the UK and postponed his return to the country in order to visit the UAE to offer condolences over the death of its ailing president.

At the outset of the hearing, Presiding Judge of the Special Court (Central-I) Ijaz Hassan Awan observed that conditions outside the court were "not good", referring to security personnel obstructing the entry of people onto the court premises. PM Shehbaz responded that he would look into the matter.

The judge also expressed anger at the SP Civil Lines for stopping judges' vehicles from entering the court.

Meanwhile, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) prosecutor Farooq Bajwa contended that three of the accused in the case were absconders and an application had been submitted for action against them.

He requested the court to indict all of the accused at the same time.

The judge observed that action had been taken against the absconders by a magistrate court.

However, the FIA prosecutor argued that proceedings to declare the three accused as absconders should be completed, adding that if the case continued in this way, it would benefit them.

Meanwhile, Shehbaz and Hamza's counsel, Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz, said that charges were filed against his clients between 2008 and 2018 and the prosecution team had removed many of them in the challan.

"It was said that matters were handled through fake companies and transactions of Rs2 billion were done through one account. Many of the charges filed by the previous investigation team were not included in the new challan," he told the court.

"There is a world of difference between the FIR and the challan." He added that the entire investigation against Shehbaz was conducted by the former adviser on accountability.

Shehbaz addresses court

Shehbaz, while speaking in the court, said that the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency (NCA) had conducted an investigation for nearly two years but could not find "even one rupee of corruption".

The prime minister said he had lived in the UK and done business in that country, claiming that the cases against him were "political".

At this point, Judge Awan said he had issued an order for declaring Shehbaz an absconder.

For his part, Shehbaz's counsel argued that the court had issued orders for declaring those people absconders whose names had been highlighted in red in the FIA's challan.

The FIA prosecutor said the accused could take advantage of any legal loophole at which the judge asked why the prosecution had remained silent for four months.

Prosecutor Bajwa responded by requesting the court to begin action against the absconders mentioned in the challan.

Subsequently, the court reserved a decision on declaring Shehbaz's son, Suleman Shehbaz, an absconder.

When Shehbaz again took the stand, he told the court he had served as the chief minister for 10 years but had never taken a salary. "My salary would be Rs10 million but I did not take it. I also went on official tours using my own money. I used to get the government car refuelled from my own pocket.

"I saved the nation billions of rupees."

The premier's counsel argued that the 14 accounts mentioned by the FIA were through banking channels. "Baseless propaganda was done in this case for 1.5 years. The accused tolerated insults despite lack of evidence.

"It seems the FIA is inspired by [streaming platform] Netflix. This is a film-inspired FIR," he argued.

Shehbaz was given a questionnaire and investigated by the FIA while he was in jail in December 18, 2020, he continued. The FIA had remained "completely silent" about the case from January 8, 2021 to June 2021, he said.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) had granted the PML-N president bail on merit in the money laundering and assets beyond means cases, Pervaiz said.

The FIA then sent a notice to Shehbaz on June 15 when the budget was about to be presented, he added.

"Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz believe in the rule of law. They are prime minister and chief minister, respectively, but they still appeared in the court."

There were several issues in the case, including which court could hear the trial and under which law was the crime committed, he argued.

The decision to extend bail would be in accordance with Supreme Court judgements, Pervaiz.

When the court asked for bail arguments to be completed, the FIA prosecutor said it could not be done today and pointed out that the investigation officer was also not present.

Pervaiz requested the court to allow the accused to leave, saying he would present the arguments. "Even if we hold daily hearings, the arguments cannot be completed within a week."

He noted that other accused were also nominated in the case and their lawyers would argue separately.

Subsequently, the court allowed Shehbaz and Hamza to leave and adjourned the hearing till 12:15pm.

Charges against Shehbaz, Hamza
The FIA had in December 2021 submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza to a special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs16bn in the sugar scam case.

"The investigation team has detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions," according to an FIA report submitted to the court.

The amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity, the report added.

This amount (Rs16bn) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of Shehbaz family), it claimed. The money received from the accounts of low-wage employees by Shehbaz was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had alleged.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

DAWN

 

[Bewal Express]

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son, Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz, appeared in a special court in Lahore on Saturday for the hearing of a Rs16 billion money laundering case.

They were set to be indicted in the case during the previous hearing on May 14 but it was delayed because Shehbaz was in the UK and postponed his return to the country in order to visit the UAE to offer condolences over the death of its ailing president.

At the outset of the hearing, Presiding Judge of the Special Court (Central-I) Ijaz Hassan Awan observed that conditions outside the court were "not good", referring to security personnel obstructing the entry of people onto the court premises. PM Shehbaz responded that he would look into the matter.

The judge also expressed anger at the SP Civil Lines for stopping judges' vehicles from entering the court.

Meanwhile, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) prosecutor Farooq Bajwa contended that three of the accused in the case were absconders and an application had been submitted for action against them.

He requested the court to indict all of the accused at the same time.

The judge observed that action had been taken against the absconders by a magistrate court.

However, the FIA prosecutor argued that proceedings to declare the three accused as absconders should be completed, adding that if the case continued in this way, it would benefit them.

Meanwhile, Shehbaz and Hamza's counsel, Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz, said that charges were filed against his clients between 2008 and 2018 and the prosecution team had removed many of them in the challan.

"It was said that matters were handled through fake companies and transactions of Rs2 billion were done through one account. Many of the charges filed by the previous investigation team were not included in the new challan," he told the court.

"There is a world of difference between the FIR and the challan." He added that the entire investigation against Shehbaz was conducted by the former adviser on accountability.

Shehbaz addresses court

Shehbaz, while speaking in the court, said that the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency (NCA) had conducted an investigation for nearly two years but could not find "even one rupee of corruption".

The prime minister said he had lived in the UK and done business in that country, claiming that the cases against him were "political".

At this point, Judge Awan said he had issued an order for declaring Shehbaz an absconder.

For his part, Shehbaz's counsel argued that the court had issued orders for declaring those people absconders whose names had been highlighted in red in the FIA's challan.

The FIA prosecutor said the accused could take advantage of any legal loophole at which the judge asked why the prosecution had remained silent for four months.

Prosecutor Bajwa responded by requesting the court to begin action against the absconders mentioned in the challan.

Subsequently, the court reserved a decision on declaring Shehbaz's son, Suleman Shehbaz, an absconder.

When Shehbaz again took the stand, he told the court he had served as the chief minister for 10 years but had never taken a salary. "My salary would be Rs10 million but I did not take it. I also went on official tours using my own money. I used to get the government car refuelled from my own pocket.

"I saved the nation billions of rupees."

The premier's counsel argued that the 14 accounts mentioned by the FIA were through banking channels. "Baseless propaganda was done in this case for 1.5 years. The accused tolerated insults despite lack of evidence.

"It seems the FIA is inspired by [streaming platform] Netflix. This is a film-inspired FIR," he argued.

Shehbaz was given a questionnaire and investigated by the FIA while he was in jail in December 18, 2020, he continued. The FIA had remained "completely silent" about the case from January 8, 2021 to June 2021, he said.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) had granted the PML-N president bail on merit in the money laundering and assets beyond means cases, Pervaiz said.

The FIA then sent a notice to Shehbaz on June 15 when the budget was about to be presented, he added.

"Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz believe in the rule of law. They are prime minister and chief minister, respectively, but they still appeared in the court."

There were several issues in the case, including which court could hear the trial and under which law was the crime committed, he argued.

The decision to extend bail would be in accordance with Supreme Court judgements, Pervaiz.

When the court asked for bail arguments to be completed, the FIA prosecutor said it could not be done today and pointed out that the investigation officer was also not present.

Pervaiz requested the court to allow the accused to leave, saying he would present the arguments. "Even if we hold daily hearings, the arguments cannot be completed within a week."

He noted that other accused were also nominated in the case and their lawyers would argue separately.

Subsequently, the court allowed Shehbaz and Hamza to leave and adjourned the hearing till 12:15pm.

Charges against Shehbaz, Hamza
The FIA had in December 2021 submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza to a special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs16bn in the sugar scam case.

"The investigation team has detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions," according to an FIA report submitted to the court.

The amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity, the report added.

This amount (Rs16bn) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of Shehbaz family), it claimed. The money received from the accounts of low-wage employees by Shehbaz was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had alleged.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

DAWN

This is an open and shut case,why is there date after date, but no trial. What's the delay General Bajwa and CJP?

 

[Varun]

This is an open and shut case,why is there date after date, but no trial. What's the delay General Bajwa and CJP?

Bajwa doesn't want to throw his puppet under the bus, does he?

 

[Bewal Express]

Bajwa doesn't want to throw his puppet under the bus, does he?

Kaptaan was blamed for not prosecuting these crooks but all along a corrupt Judiciary and Generals that are getting blackmailed by the mafia were protecting them. They had billions in their accounts and they can't explain where they came from, how the hell did a Chaprasi end up with billions in his account. Someone has to explain why they haven't had a trial. We have Nani on bail to look after her dad but he hasn't been in the country for nearly 3 years. Our Judiciary don't have the cajones to hold them to account.

 

[MenInG]

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Saturday opposed the immediate indictment of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minster Hamza in the Rs16bn money laundering case.

Last week, reports emerged that the FIA had withdrawn its case against Shehbaz and Hamza. The FIA subsequently issued a press release repudiating the reports, saying that the "case has not been withdrawn" and court proceedings were ongoing.

Shehbaz and his sons -- Hamza and Suleman -- were booked by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in November 2020 under Sections 419, 420, 468, 471, 34 and 109 of the PPC and 5(2) and 5(3) of the Prevention of Corruption Act and r/w 3/4 of Anti Money Laundering Act.

Fourteen others were also named in the FIR under Sections 5(2) and 5(3) (criminal misconduct) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, read with 3/4 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

During the proceedings today, both the premier and the provincial chief executive appeared in a Lahore special court.

FIA prosecutor Farooq Bajwa opposed the immediate imposition of the indictment, arguing that proceedings should first be completed against the accused.

The court then questioned the prosecution on why it was silent for the past four months and asked whether it was to benefit the accused.

The prosecutor said three suspects in the case were absconders and an application has been submitted against them and prayed upon the court to indict all the suspects at the same time.

PM Shehbaz stated in court that the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency (NCA) had investigated him for over two years and could not find "even a rupee of corruption". The premier added that the cases against him were "political"

“All the 14 accounts mentioned in the case were transacted through banking channels. In this case, baseless propaganda was spread. This is a sham FIR,” the prime minister's counsel Amjad Pervaiz said.

The court then reserved judgment on the petition seeking the declaration of the accused as absconders.

Express Tribune

 

[Bewal Express]

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on Saturday opposed the immediate indictment of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minster Hamza in the Rs16bn money laundering case.

Last week, reports emerged that the FIA had withdrawn its case against Shehbaz and Hamza. The FIA subsequently issued a press release repudiating the reports, saying that the "case has not been withdrawn" and court proceedings were ongoing.

Shehbaz and his sons -- Hamza and Suleman -- were booked by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in November 2020 under Sections 419, 420, 468, 471, 34 and 109 of the PPC and 5(2) and 5(3) of the Prevention of Corruption Act and r/w 3/4 of Anti Money Laundering Act.

Fourteen others were also named in the FIR under Sections 5(2) and 5(3) (criminal misconduct) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, read with 3/4 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

During the proceedings today, both the premier and the provincial chief executive appeared in a Lahore special court.

FIA prosecutor Farooq Bajwa opposed the immediate imposition of the indictment, arguing that proceedings should first be completed against the accused.

The court then questioned the prosecution on why it was silent for the past four months and asked whether it was to benefit the accused.

The prosecutor said three suspects in the case were absconders and an application has been submitted against them and prayed upon the court to indict all the suspects at the same time.

PM Shehbaz stated in court that the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency (NCA) had investigated him for over two years and could not find "even a rupee of corruption". The premier added that the cases against him were "political"

“All the 14 accounts mentioned in the case were transacted through banking channels. In this case, baseless propaganda was spread. This is a sham FIR,” the prime minister's counsel Amjad Pervaiz said.

The court then reserved judgment on the petition seeking the declaration of the accused as absconders.

Express Tribune

Opposed? Why? Havent we had enough hearings.

 

[Varun]

Kaptaan was blamed for not prosecuting these crooks but all along a corrupt Judiciary and Generals that are getting blackmailed by the mafia were protecting them. They had billions in their accounts and they can't explain where they came from, how the hell did a Chaprasi end up with billions in his account. Someone has to explain why they haven't had a trial. We have Nani on bail to look after her dad but he hasn't been in the country for nearly 3 years. Our Judiciary don't have the cajones to hold them to account.

The Sharif and Bhuttos are small fries and their blackmailing is proportionate. The ones who wields the true power in Pakistan regardless of which Sharif or Bhutto is in power is the military. And even they sell themselves to the highest bidder (like the USA) so it looks like Imran Khan is the only patriot Pakistan has got.

 

[Bewal Express]

The Sharif and Bhuttos are small fries and their blackmailing is proportionate. The ones who wields the true power in Pakistan regardless of which Sharif or Bhutto is in power is the military. And even they sell themselves to the highest bidder (like the USA) so it looks like Imran Khan is the only patriot Pakistan has got.

The Military elite and the mafia are hand in glove. The nexus has been exposed. The irony is that they said the Kaptaan was selected when all along they are the ladlaay.

 

[IMMY69]

The Sharif and Bhuttos are small fries and their blackmailing is proportionate. The ones who wields the true power in Pakistan regardless of which Sharif or Bhutto is in power is the military. And even they sell themselves to the highest bidder (like the USA) so it looks like Imran Khan is the only patriot Pakistan has got.

You are right.
Issue with Pakistan is that there is no hiding it.
The US does it best followed closely by the UK

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister (PM) Mian Shehbaz Sharif ordered Chief Minister Punjab (CM) Hamza Shehbaz Sharif to hold an inquiry into the disruption caused by security officials after a judge and others complained of being harassed by security officials.

The orders came after the Special Court (Central-I) judge Ijaz Hassan Awan complained his car was intercepted and others were stopped from entering the court premises.

The premier passed the orders as he stood in court for the first time after coming into power on April 9. The judge was hearing the pre-arrest bails of Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz Sharif in the money laundering case of Rs16 billion.

PM Shehbaz and CM Hamza Shehbaz remained in the courtroom for around two and half hours for the proceedings.

During the morning hours, after the arrival of the prime minister at the court premies, that gate was closed by security personnel and litigants, lawyers, court staffers, and journalists were not allowed inside.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) Attaullah Tarar, who was along with the PM, said the prime minister was also not able to enter the courtroom until the journalists were allowed. "The PM waited there until the journalists were allowed into the premises," he said.

During the court proceedings, the judge expressed his dismay over the security personnel intercepting his car and staffers.

Shehbaz took the rostrum and told the court that he was also stopped by the security at the main gate.

“Mr prime minister, you are the prime minister in or outside the courtroom”, the judge remarked. "Who will take action? You have administrative control, it is also your obligation to see things and decide what sort of action may be taken in such a situation", he furthered.

Upon this, the PM directed CM Punjab to hold an inquiry into "why or who created such a situation at court premises".

The court also took the Superintendent of Police (SP) Civil Lines, Safdar Raza Kazmi, to task over the conduct adopted by the security officials. SP Safdar Raza ensured the court that such a situation will not arise in the future.

The statement irked the judge who then directed the SP to state in categorical terms what action he intended to take and what had already been done.

While the police official stated that there had been some miscoordination and assured the judge that the police respected the courts, the court nonetheless issued a notice to the SP and directed him to submit a written reply.

Later during the court session, the PM took the rostrum and added “I may be morally weak but I swear to God that I had never been involved in corruption and those allegations levelled against me”.

He argued that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) government had failed to prove allegations worth "even a single penny", he added.

"PTI tried to establish corruption or money laundering charges in the London court but nothing could be proved"

The premier stated that he had "saved public money and protected the national exchequer" but he is being portrayed as a corrupt individual

Earlier on Saturday, sources privy to the development had said the "sudden" decision of the prime minister, who had been skirting the hearings in the case, was taken in the light of counselling given by his lawyer Amjad Pervez.

They added that the decision to face accountability was prompted by the Chief Justice of PakistanUmar Ata Bandial's suo motu notice of "perceived interference" by "persons in authority" in the investigation and prosecution of criminal matters against government officials.

Express Tribune

 

[MenInG]

Lahore: FIA court on Saturday extended Prime Minister Shehbaz Shareef and Chief Minister Punjab Hamza Shehbaz’s bails, while an arrest warrant has been issued for Salman Shehbaz, ARY News reported.

According to details, PM and CM Punjab appeared in FIA Lahore court in the money laundering case against him. Shehbaz Shareef’s attorney concluded his remarks for the extension of his bail and said that the Prime Minister did not receive any unaccounted amount in any of his accounts.

The PML-N President took to the rostrum amid the hearing and said that he served as CM Punjab for ten years without even drawing his salary. He added that he did international tours at his personal expense, and the NCA has been unable to prove anything against him.

The court issued the arrest warrants of PM’s son Salman Shehbaz, his peon Maqsood, and Tahir Naqvi, declaring them absconders on the prosecution’s request. Salman Shehbaz is currently in the United Kingdom.

The security in and around the court was on high alert amid the PM and CM Punjab’s hearing, everyone including journalists were barred from entering the courtroom during the hearing.

ARY

 

[MenInG]

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday testified in a special court hearing the Rs16 billion money laundering case against him that he refused to receive any salary or benefits when he was chief minister of Punjab, terming himself a "majnoo".

His son, incumbent Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz was also in court in the hearing of the case filed against Shehbaz and his family by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

Presiding judge of the Special Court (Central-I), Ijaz Hassan Awan, had extended their interim bails in the case till May 28 (today) during the hearing last week.

When the hearing resumed, the judge pointed out to FIA prosecutor Farooq Bajwa that the agency's report regarding the arrest of Shehbaz's son, Suleman Shehbaz, and other suspects had contradictory statements.

"On one hand, the report says that D-41, Model Town, is not an address. On the other, it also says the suspect Suleman Shehbaz is abroad," he observed. Bajwa responded that the address did exist but the suspect could not be found at that location.

"It is the fault of the person who wrote [the report]. He wanted to say the suspect was not present at that location."

The judge noted that the report also failed to mention other routine details on Suleman and another suspect Tahir Naqvi.

The FIA prosecutor said the agency would re-issue the arrest warrants and submit a fresh report to the court.

Judge Awan then noted that another suspect, Ghulam Shabbar, had passed away, to which Bajwa replied that the suspect's death certificate was a year old and the inquiry had started prior to his death.

He said he would submit a detailed response.

The judge asked the investigation officer to inform the court about the extent of the investigation conducted with regard to Shabbar. "Apparently, this challan will have to be re-submitted."

Meanwhile, Shehbaz and Hamza's counsel, Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz, argued that the facts in the challan were incorrect. "This case was mala fide because it was politically motivated. The law says if there are 10 cases against someone, he cannot be arrested separately for each."

Prime Minister Shehbaz then took the rostrum and said the case against him was "false".

"I have not taken anything from the government in 12.5 years," he said, adding that he used to get the government car in his use refuelled from his own pocket.

"God has made me the prime minister of this country. I am a majnoo. I did not take my legal right, I did not take salary and benefits."

He recalled that the secretary had sent a summary to him for sugar export during his tenure as Punjab chief minister, adding that he had set an export limit and rejected summaries.

"My family lost Rs2bn because of my decision. I am telling you the reality. When my son's ethanol production plant was being set up, I still decided to impose a duty on ethanol. My family lost Rs800 million annually because of that decision. The previous government withdrew that notification stating that it was injustice with the sugar mills."

Subsequently, the judge gave Shehbaz and Hamza permission to leave, saying the hearing could proceed without their presence.

Their counsel, Pervaiz, argued that the prime minister did not have any connection to the accounts mentioned in the FIA report.

"It is the prosecution's job to prove [his connection] to the benami accounts. The FIA has been unable to bring forth even one statement in 10 years that Shehbaz has any connection to these accounts."

The defence did not yet know whether the prosecution witness statements in the case were true, he said, adding that according to those statements, the accounts were opened for Suleman.

"The witnesses do not say these accounts were Shehbaz's. Mushtaq Cheeni also opened accounts but no FIR was registered against him."

Charges against Hamza, Shehbaz

The FIA had in December 2021 submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza to a special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs16bn in the sugar scam case.

"The investigation team has detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions," according to an FIA report submitted to the court.

The amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity, the report added.

This amount (Rs16bn) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of Shehbaz family), it claimed. The money received from the accounts of low-wage employees by Shehbaz was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had alleged.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

DAWN

 

[MenInG]

A Lahore special court central judge on Saturday expressed his displeasure over the Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) conduct in preparing an improper arrest warrant for Salman Shehbaz.

The court has initiated proceedings to declare Salman a proclaimed offender in the money laundering case.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz and other accused were present in the courtroom during the proceedings. They are accused in the Rs16 billion money laundering case.

During previous hearings, the judge, on the request of the FIA, had initiated proceedings to declare three accused including Salman as proclaimed offenders in the case.

In the hearing today, the judge asked about the status of Salman’s arrest warrants.

“Who prepared this arrest warrant? The name of Salman’s father has not been mentioned here,” the judge asked.

The judge also pointed out to the FIA prosecutor, Farooq Bajwa, that the report prepared by the agency regarding the arrest of the premier's son and the other two suspects had a lot of contradictions.

The judge said that on one hand, the report states that D-41 Model Town does not exist as an address and on the other hand it states that the accused is not in the country. To this, FIA’s prosecutor informed the court that the address does exist but the suspect could not be found at the said location.

The judge remarked that the report had also failed to mention other routine details on Salman and another accused as well.

Read More: Court unable to indict Shehbaz, Hamza in money laundering case
“FIA will again issue the arrest warrant and submit a fresh report. There are lacunas in the report prepared by the FIA,” the prosecutor said.

Shehbaz Sharif

During proceedings, PM Shehbaz said that his family's sugar business suffered a lot from his decisions as CM and reiterated that he had not even withdrawn his salary of public office in more than 12 years as Punjab’s chief executive.

“God made me the PM of this country. I have not taken any benefit,” he added and recalled that during his tenure as CM, the provincial secretary had sent a summary to him for exporting sugar, which he rejected while limiting the commodity’s export.

"My family lost over Rs2 billion due to my decisions. They lost Rs800 million annually because of it."

“I proposed a subsidy of Rs15 at that time. My decisions were actually in favour of Pakistan but not in favour of my family. Please do not not consider my words in the sense that I am praising myself,” the PM further said.

Meanwhile, the prime minister sought permission to leave the court, which was allowed by the judge.

Arguments

The accused’s counsel argued that there was no concrete evidence which could prove the guilt of his clients. The counsel further prayed that this case was a "tale" and politically motivated.

“The defendants did not even know whether the prosecution witnesses' statements in the case were true,” he added. “The witnesses do not say these accounts belonged to Shehbaz Sharif. Mushtaq Cheeni also opened accounts but no FIR was registered against him. The proceedings are still in progress.”

Express Tribune

 

[MenInG]

LAHORE: Suspended special prosecutor of Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Sikandar Zulqarnain has made sensational revelations against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz in a money laundering case.

Speaking during an exclusive interview to ARY News, Sikandar Zulqarnain pointed out that he was not removed from the money laundering case because he did not appeared before the court

“We were already told that both, Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz, are going to become the Prime Minister, Chief Minister. On April 10, the then Director-General FIA Sanaullah Abbasi told me not to appear before the court,” the suspended prosecutor added.

He further said, “I informed the court that I cannot appear in the money laundering case for these reasons, as I could see that Dr Rizwan was removed and now I was also being stopped from further investigation.”

The suspended prosecutor said he was regularly appearing before the court since February 18. “Later, a no-confidence motion was tabled in the National Assembly and why should he appear before the court after he received a message from the then DG FIA,” he asked.

He further said that Sanaullah Abbasi should be asked why he directed him in this regard. “I asked the court to make my application a part of the record, in which I had written that the accused were asked not to appear due to their positions.

Talking about the money laundering case, Zulqarnain said that there was enough evidence to reach a logical conclusion. “Legally, the accused would be sentenced after seven days after giving copies of the challan and the case would be decided within six months,” he added.

Referring to the late Dr Rizwan, the suspended prosecutor said that everyone bear the pressure of mega cases, but Dr Rizwan failed to bear that pressure. “I have no political affiliation and if it had, I would not have taken this case,” Zulqarnain explained, adding that he was fighting the case for Pakistan. He further said he would not take the case again after so many controversies.

ARY

 

[MenInG]

 

[Stewie]

our people deserve every bit of pain, misery and humiliation that comes their way.

How can we allow this hamarzadgi to continue and then in good conscience think our nation will prosper?

 

[MenInG]

LAHORE: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has prepared an interim challan against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, his son Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shahbaz and others while making progress on money laundering case, ARY News reported on Friday.

The FIA investigators prepared an interim challan against Shehbaz Sharif, Hamza and others after making three changes. Sources told ARY News that the investigators mentioned complete addresses and the fathers’ names of the accused persons.

In the interim charge sheet, the co-accused Shabbar’s death was confirmed. Sources added that interrogators and witnesses remained unchanged in the challan. The interim charge sheet against Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shahbaz will be submitted to the court on Saturday (tomorrow).

It is important to mention here that the court had directed the intelligence agency to submit an interim charge sheet during the previous hearing.

On May 28, a special court hearing a money laundering case against PM Sharif and Punjab PM Hamza expressed dissatisfaction over the FIA compliance report. Shehbaz and Hamza Shehbaz were present in the courtroom during the hearing.

Judge Ijaz Hassan Awan had expressed resentment over the investigation officer’s report about arrest warrants of absconding accused Salman Shehbaz, Malik Maqsood and Tahir Naqvi.

“A report was submitted a year ago about sending notices to the accused to their addresses. Now, the report said that accused were not found at their concerned address,” the judge remarked. “Which of the reports to be believed”, he questioned.

The court had also resented over the absence of the father’s name in the warrant against Salman Shehbaz, Tahir Naqvi and exclusion of the name of a deceased accused Ghulam Shabbir from the challan.

The FIA lawyer had suggested serving warrants to the accused again with a fresh compliance report. “Ghulam Shabbir’s death certificate is one year old, the inquiry began before it,” the counsel said.

The investigation officer should submit the investigation concerned with Ghulam Shabbir, the court said. “The challan seemed to be submitted again,” the judge had said.

The accountability court later extended the interim bail of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz till June 04.

Shehbaz and his family are facing charges of money laundering of billions of rupees using accounts of their sugar mills and employees, according to the FIA.

ARY

 

[MenInG]

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Saturday told the Special Court (Central-I) that the agency wanted to arrest Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Hamza Shehbaz in the Rs16 billion money laundering case filed against the father and son duo, Geo News reported.

During today’s hearing, FIA’s lawyer argued that the duo was “not part of the investigation”; however, Hamza’s counsel rejected the claims, accusing the agency of misleading the court as the "two had been a part of the investigations".

In his arguments, the counsel for Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz, Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz said that the investigation has been going on for the last one-and-a-half year and the FIA has been unable to produce any evidence against his clients.

As Amjad Pervaiz started presenting his arguments for the confirmation of bail in the money laundering case, both the PML-N leaders left the court.

The counsel highlighted that the FIA interrogated the father-son duo when both of them were in jail.

The court had extended the interim bail of PM Shehbaz and Hamza till June 4 (today) on the last hearing and had directed Hamza's lawyer to present his arguments today.

During the last hearing, the court took notice incomplete challan and ordered the prosecution to file a supplementary challan, completing all the requirements.

Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz and CM Hamza will also appear in an accountability court for a hearing of the Ashiyana Housing reference, in which the premier has already been indicted.

Strict security arrangements have been made around the courts ahead of PM's arrival.

Money laundering case
In December 2021, the FIA had submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza before the special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs16 billion in the sugar scam case.

According to the FIA report submitted to the court, the investigation team has "detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions."

The report added that the amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity.

This amount (Rs16 billion) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of the Shehbaz family), it claimed. The money received from the accounts of low-wage employees by Shehbaz was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for the beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had alleged.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

GEO

 

[MenInG]

Seems Shehbaz Mian may be heading back to his rightful abode soon...

 

[DRsohail]

Seems Shehbaz Mian may be heading back to his rightful abode soon...

I wish our institutions were that powerful and unbiased.

 

[Extra_Cover]

This arrest gimmick is a smoke screen that would buy father/son more time in court. I would appreciate if the court can simply just charge the two and start the trial on the case rather than prolonging this any further.

 

[Bewal Express]

This arrest gimmick is a smoke screen that would buy father/son more time in court. I would appreciate if the court can simply just charge the two and start the trial on the case rather than prolonging this any further.

I totally agree. We know now that the establishment totally control the LHC and toy with cases as they wish. This is a delaying tactic from which zilch will come. These guys should have been jail a long time ago.

 

[Bewal Express]

I wish our institutions were that powerful and unbiased.

They are just as corrupt as these guys. A terrible state of affairs

 

[MenInG]

LAHORE: A special court in Lahore extended on Saturday the interim bail of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz till June 11 in the Rs16 billion money laundering case filed against them by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

However, the presiding judge of the Special Court (Central-I), Ijaz Hassan Awan, issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Suleman Shahbaz, and two others in the case, as they were not present. The hearing was subsequently adjourned till June 11.

At the outset of the hearing today, the FIA told the court that the agency wanted to arrest PM Shehbaz and CM Hamza. The FIA’s lawyer argued that the duo was “not part of the investigation”; however, Hamza’s counsel rejected the claims, accusing the agency of misleading the court as the "two had been a part of the investigations".

In his arguments, the counsel for Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz, Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz said that the investigation has been going on for the last one-and-a-half year and the FIA has been unable to produce any evidence against his clients.

As Amjad Pervaiz started presenting his arguments for the confirmation of bail in the money laundering case, both the PML-N leaders left the court.

The counsel highlighted that the FIA interrogated the father-son duo when both of them were in jail.

The judge ordered all other stakeholders to present their arguments at the next hearing; directing FIA to present a report on the non-bailable warrants against Suleman Shahbaz, Tahir Naqvi and Malik Maqsood.

Hearing on NAB references

On the other hand, during the hearing in Ramzan Sugar Mills and Ashiyana Housing cases, filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in an accountability court, PM Shehbaz requested the judge to present arguments himself and sought time for it.

During the hearing, prosecutor Asadullah Malik produced witnesses who presented records related to the corruption cases while SSP Legal Lahore Police sought more time from the court to present complete records.

After hearing all the arguments, the hearing was adjourned till June 20.

It is worth mentioning that Shehbaz has already been indicted in the Ashiyana Housing reference

FIA case
In December 2021, the FIA had submitted the challan against Shehbaz and Hamza before the special court for their alleged involvement in laundering an amount of Rs16 billion in the sugar scam case.

According to the FIA report submitted to the court, the investigation team has "detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions."

The report added that the amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity.

This amount (Rs16 billion) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of the Shehbaz family), it claimed. The money received from the accounts of low-wage employees by Shehbaz was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for the beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had alleged.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

Express Tribune

 

[MenInG]

LAHORE: A special court hearing the Rs16 billion money laundering case against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son, Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz, was told by the former on Saturday that it is a "pack of lies" and "will be buried".

PM Shehbaz and Hamza were summoned in Special Court (Central) today for questioning, with the prosecutors having concluded their arguments against an extension in interim bail which the father and son have sought.

The court reserved its verdict on all requests for bail, including those by PM Shehbaz and Hamza.

In his plea, PM Shehbaz stated: "I am obliged to inform the court of the truth regarding my bail."

He said that the case by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is identical to that being pursued by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

"The Ashiana [Housing Scheme] and Ramzan Sugar Mills cases were built against me," said Shehbaz.

"You have no ownership of them?" asked the judge.

"I have no share in either," PM Shehbaz responded, adding that in the Ashiana case, he was accused of the misuse of his authority as chief minister.

"NAB moved the Supreme Court against me, despite the fact that the Lahore High Court had issued a detailed verdict in my case," he said.

He said that the then chief justice had also asked for proof of corruption against him.

PM Shehbaz went on to state: "The FIA visited me twice when I was in NAB detention, but I refused to answer without my attorney's input."

He said that NAB "panicked and fled" from there, while the FIA was provided with all the facts verbally.

"My cases were decided on their merit, and I emerged clean," he remarked.

The premier added that a man's honour is his greatest asset and that "severe" allegations have been made against him.

"I faced countless hearings and trials. The FIA was admonished for not presenting a challan. I believe the FIA was preparing for an arrest, hence the challan was delayed," he added.

He reiterated that he is neither a director nor a stakeholder of the Ramzan Sugar Mills.

PM Shehbaz continued: "[All this] harmed the family's sugar mills. Why would I engage in corruption and money laundering and harm the family business?"

He said that he "had the legal right to grant the business a subsidy".

"The entire case is built on lies and will be buried," PM Shehbaz said.

For his part, attorney Amjad Pervez stated that the fact that Shehbaz Sharif and Hamza Shehbaz had previously been interrogated in jail by the FIA was sufficient proof for their bail and that no further evidence could be presented.

Shehbaz's counsel stated that a witness on page 2 of volume 6 did not provide the statement mentioned in the challan.

FIA Prosecutor Farooq Bajwa said he seeks to conclude his arguments.

The court asked the FIA if bankers were called as witnesses in the investigation, and the FIA prosecutor said that they were not.

He said: "I would not state anything that is not a part of the records. The entire matter has been presented to the court."

"I will speak in accordance with the law, I will not simply oppose him as a prosecutor," said Bajwa. "When the FIA made this case, there was no direct investigation."

The FIA prosecutor added: "I would not engage in such trickery for which I have no explanation."

He said that "these are political figures", and that "such is the evidence collected when such cases are opened".

"Two cheques dated 2015 and 2013 were deposited into Gulzar's account," said the FIA prosecutor elaborating on "evidence" found.

He said that it is rare for the challan to appear while the bail period has not ended.

Bajwa said that the FIA's evidence was "not ill intentioned" and that as much evidence as possible was collected in the case.

According to him, suspects Masroor Anwar and Usman were not interrogated.

To this, Pervez said: "The case has been ongoing for more than a year and now we discover that the suspects were not made part of the inquiry."

"All this has to be disclosed in the initial hearing," he added.

The FIA prosecutor responded by saying that that two cheques had been deposited into suspect Gulzar's account, which is direct evidence.

"So how is this illegal?" the court asked the FIA prosecutor, to which his response was: "This is something that even the other respondents cannot comment on. No one knows how the cheques were deposited."

Pervez said that it must then be examined if depositing a cheque constitutes a crime. "What the FIA is saying does not constitute a crime," he said.

The counsels for both the defense and the prosecution submitted their written arguments to the court.
It is pertinent to mention here that the special court in Lahore had summoned the father-son duo for their indictment in the case in April but it was deferred due to the premier's foreign engagements.

The case
In December 2021, the FIA had submitted a challan against Shehbaz and Hamza to the special court for their alleged involvement in laundering Rs16 billion in a sugar scam.

According to the FIA report submitted to the court, the investigation team "detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed from 2008-18. The FIA examined a money trail of 17,000 credit transactions."

The report added that the amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and "given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity".

This amount (Rs16 billion) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of Shehbaz's family), it claimed. The money allegedly received from the accounts of low-wage employees was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for the beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had said.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

GEO

 

[MenInG]

Special Court Central, which is hearing the money laundering case involving Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Hamza Shahbaz, on Saturday reserved its decision on pre-arrest bail pleas by the premier and the CM.

During the hearing today, the premier took to the rostrum and told the court that his family had suffered due to his decisions as he had given preference to the common people rather than his own family members.

Advocate Amjad Pervez, representing the Sharif family, argued that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had not found any evidence which could establish a connection between the premier and the chief minister with the accounts mentioned in the money laundering case.

However, FIA Prosecutor Farooq Bajwa told the court that substantial evidence has been collected from the time when Shehbaz was the provincial chief minister and two cheques had also been deposited to one Gulzar's account.

Advocate Amjad responded that depositing money did not equate to money laundering.

The FIA further revealed that two of the accused had not been included in the investigation. “That is astonishing,” advocate Amjad responded, adding that the information should have been conveyed at an earlier stage of the trial.

“We are at a loss to understand why the FIA could not investigate them,” he maintained. The court after hearing detailed arguments reserved its decision.

Earlier Proceedings

In earlier proceedings, the FIA had demanded the arrest of Shehbaz and Hamza after the judge had questioned if the FIA believed it mandatory to arrest the father-son duo.

According to the FIA’s prosecutor “as per the demand, which had also been put in the challan, the arrest of said accused is required for further investigation”.

The judge also issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Suleman Shehbaz, Tahir Naqvi and Malik Maqsood Ahmed with direction to the concerned station house officer (SHO) to implement the warrants and report them in person before the next court date.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif were both present in the courtroom during the proceedings.

Advocate Amjad’s arguments included various points such as “no statements recorded under section 161 are on case record; no cogent or substantial evidence is available which could prove the crime on the part of the accused persons; no evidence is available to establish that neither Mian Shehbaz Sharif nor Hamza Shahbaz opened the bank accounts or operated them”.

Responding to the FIA’s request for arresting the PM and the CM, he cited judgments from the Supreme Court and the Lahore High Court, highlighting the extent of bail matters.

He added that the high court and the apex court had declared such an arrest as “malafide” if the investigation has been completed, challan had been submitted and that no delay could be proved on the part of the accused.

He further argued that the FIA had submitted the challan before the court and its copies had been delivered

Advocate Amjad questioned which grounds the challan had been submitted on if further inquiry was required, maintaining that a challan is submitted after probing the matter rather than at the beginning of the investigation.

The FIA’s prosecutor submitted the supplementary challan removing lacunas and including all missing details. However, the FIA was to start its arguments on June 11.

Express Tribune

 

[Firebat]

No evidence of corruption against PM Shehbaz, CM Hamza: court

LAHORE: A special court in the city said Monday that "no evidence of corruption, misuse of authority, and bribery" was so far found against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son, Chief Minister Punjab Hamza Shahbaz, in the Rs16 billion money laundering case.

In a written order for confirming their pre-arrest bail, the higher court said the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) wanted to arrest PM Shehbaz and CM Hamza after they secured bails in the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) cases, showing that the FIA had “mala fide” intentions.

The special court, which was hearing the Rs16 billion money laundering case filed by the FIA against the premier and Hamza, granted the two pre-arrest bail last week.

“...allegation about gratification, corrupt practice, abuse of official authority, kickbacks, and commission requires further probe during the trial as at this stage cogent evidence is not available,” the order read.

The order said that the investigation office (IO), to date, has not mentioned in his diary that the petitioners were required to be in custody for further investigation.

The investigation of the case has been completed and the charge sheet has also been submitted, therefore, the arrests are not required, the special court said, explaining its decision to grant the petitioners bail.

The order mentioned that the statements of the 64 people recorded in the case — who had deposited the amounts — relate to Rs60.7 million and not Rs16 billion — as claimed by the FIA.

It added that in the statements of the 64 depositors, none mentioned the names of the prime minister and the chief minister. “Moreover, said statements do not spell out any bribery, kickbacks, or commission, etc.”

Read more: https://www.geo.tv/latest/422190-no-evidence-of-corruption-against-pm-shehbaz-cm-hamza-court

 

[MenInG]

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) officers who were investigating corruption cases against the Sharif family and other Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leaders have been transferred, ARY News reported on Wednesday.

In a major reshuffle in the NAB hierarchy, transfers and postings have been witnessed among the high-level officers who were probing into cases against the Sharif family, Khawaja Asif, Javed Latif and others.

The reshuffle was approved by the acting NAB chairman, issuing orders to transfer an officer of the bureau’s Lahore to the Karachi chapter. Muhammad Asghar has been transferred from NAB Lahore to NAB Sukkur.

Nadeem Ahmed was transferred from NAB Lahore to NAB Islamabad, Khawar Ilyas from NAB Lahore to NAB Balochistan, Muhammad Tariq Khan from NAB Sukkur to NAB Lahore, Mufti Abdul Haque from NAB Islamabad to NAB Lahore and Hina Saeed from NAB Balochistan to NAB Islamabad.

ARY

 

[MenInG]

A special court in Lahore on Saturday fixed September 7 as a date for the indictment of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, his son Hamza Shahbaz in the Rs16bn money laundering case.

At the outset of today’s hearing, the Special Court (Central-I), has summoned Shahbaz Sharif, his son Hamza Shahbaz and other co-accused on the next hearing for framing charges against them in the case.

Meanwhile, the court adjourned the case till the next hearing.

‘No evidence of corruption’

On June 13, the special court observed, "No evidence of corruption, misuse of authority, and bribery" was so far found on record against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza Shahbaz, in the mega money laundering case.

In a written order for confirming their pre-arrest bail, the court said the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) wanted to arrest PM Shahbaz and CM Hamza after they secured bails in the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) cases, showing that the FIA had “mala fide” intentions.

The special court, which was hearing the Rs16 billion money laundering case filed by the FIA against the premier and Hamza, granted the two pre-arrest bail last week.

“...allegation about gratification, corrupt practice, abuse of official authority, kickbacks, and commission requires further probe during the trial as at this stage cogent evidence is not available,” the order read.

The order said that the investigation office (IO), to date, has not mentioned in his diary that the petitioners were required to be in custody for further investigation.

The investigation of the case has been completed and the charge sheet has also been submitted, therefore, the arrests are not required, the special court said, explaining its decision to grant the petitioners bail.

The order mentioned that the statements of the 64 people recorded in the case — who had deposited the amounts — relate to Rs60.7 million and not Rs16 billion — as claimed by the FIA.

It added that in the statements of the 64 depositors, none mentioned the names of the prime minister and the chief minister. “Moreover, said statements do not spell out any bribery, kickbacks, or commission, etc.”

Prosecution's 'mal intent'

The order said that the FIA started investigating Hamza and PM Shehbaz when they were already in the NAB’s custody. It noted that they were interrogated twice — on December 18, 2022, and January 8, 2021.

Following this, the FIA did not interrogate them for the next five months. Once they were released from NAB’s custody, the court said FIA asked them to appear before it.

“This shows that the prosecution wanted to arrest them again after their release, which shows its mal intent,” the special court’s order said.

The court added that although Hamza Shahbaz was the CEO of the Ramazan Sugar Mills, the prosecution was not able to prove that the accounts — used to launder money — were opened on his orders.

Initially, the FIA claimed that Hamza was involved in corruption worth Rs25 billion, but later, in the charge sheet, it said that he was involved in corruption worth Rs16 billion, the court mentioned.

The case

In December 2021, the FIA had submitted a challan against Shehbaz and Hamza to the special court for their alleged involvement in laundering Rs16 billion in a sugar scam.

According to the FIA report submitted to the court, the investigation team "detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed from 2008-18. The FIA examined a money trail of 17,000 credit transactions."

The report added that the amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and "given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity".

This amount (Rs16 billion) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of Shehbaz's family), it claimed. The money allegedly received from the accounts of low-wage employees was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for the beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had said.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

thenews

 

[MenInG]

Trying their best PDM boys but chor past catching up fast.

 

[Bewal Express]

A special court in Lahore on Saturday fixed September 7 as a date for the indictment of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, his son Hamza Shahbaz in the Rs16bn money laundering case.

At the outset of today’s hearing, the Special Court (Central-I), has summoned Shahbaz Sharif, his son Hamza Shahbaz and other co-accused on the next hearing for framing charges against them in the case.

Meanwhile, the court adjourned the case till the next hearing.

‘No evidence of corruption’

On June 13, the special court observed, "No evidence of corruption, misuse of authority, and bribery" was so far found on record against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza Shahbaz, in the mega money laundering case.

In a written order for confirming their pre-arrest bail, the court said the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) wanted to arrest PM Shahbaz and CM Hamza after they secured bails in the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) cases, showing that the FIA had “mala fide” intentions.

The special court, which was hearing the Rs16 billion money laundering case filed by the FIA against the premier and Hamza, granted the two pre-arrest bail last week.

“...allegation about gratification, corrupt practice, abuse of official authority, kickbacks, and commission requires further probe during the trial as at this stage cogent evidence is not available,” the order read.

The order said that the investigation office (IO), to date, has not mentioned in his diary that the petitioners were required to be in custody for further investigation.

The investigation of the case has been completed and the charge sheet has also been submitted, therefore, the arrests are not required, the special court said, explaining its decision to grant the petitioners bail.

The order mentioned that the statements of the 64 people recorded in the case — who had deposited the amounts — relate to Rs60.7 million and not Rs16 billion — as claimed by the FIA.

It added that in the statements of the 64 depositors, none mentioned the names of the prime minister and the chief minister. “Moreover, said statements do not spell out any bribery, kickbacks, or commission, etc.”

Prosecution's 'mal intent'

The order said that the FIA started investigating Hamza and PM Shehbaz when they were already in the NAB’s custody. It noted that they were interrogated twice — on December 18, 2022, and January 8, 2021.

Following this, the FIA did not interrogate them for the next five months. Once they were released from NAB’s custody, the court said FIA asked them to appear before it.

“This shows that the prosecution wanted to arrest them again after their release, which shows its mal intent,” the special court’s order said.

The court added that although Hamza Shahbaz was the CEO of the Ramazan Sugar Mills, the prosecution was not able to prove that the accounts — used to launder money — were opened on his orders.

Initially, the FIA claimed that Hamza was involved in corruption worth Rs25 billion, but later, in the charge sheet, it said that he was involved in corruption worth Rs16 billion, the court mentioned.

The case

In December 2021, the FIA had submitted a challan against Shehbaz and Hamza to the special court for their alleged involvement in laundering Rs16 billion in a sugar scam.

According to the FIA report submitted to the court, the investigation team "detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs16.3bn was committed from 2008-18. The FIA examined a money trail of 17,000 credit transactions."

The report added that the amount was kept in "hidden accounts" and "given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity".

This amount (Rs16 billion) has nothing to do with the sugar business (of Shehbaz's family), it claimed. The money allegedly received from the accounts of low-wage employees was transferred outside Pakistan via hundi/hawala networks, ultimately destined for the beneficial use of his family members, the FIA had said.

"Eleven low-paid employees of the Sharif group who 'held and possessed' the laundered proceeds on behalf of the principal accused, are found guilty of facilitating money laundering. The three other co-accused of the Sharif group also actively facilitated the money laundering," the agency had said.

thenews

Another date will be set, then another

 

[Hextro]

Another date will be set, then another

Everyone already knows that. They've got the court in their pockets otherwise this is an open and shut case.

 

[Bewal Express]

Everyone already knows that. They've got the court in their pockets otherwise this is an open and shut case.

Bajwa saved this crook and AZ for 3 years. And will continue to do so. Our establishment saves thugs like these like they are their assets( and now we know that to be true) and it has brought us to the verge bankruptcy. I always believed that our army hated criminals and I feel absolute idiot for believing that it was always PK 1st for them, its become obvious that they are only interested in controlling criminal politicians.

 

[Vatta]

The old backache/the dog ate my homework excuses.

In plain English, lying scumbags.