By Pakistan’s military has announced the arrest of three retired officers as part of a broader investigation into former spy chief Faiz Hameed. The investigation is centered around allegations of corruption and misuse of power against Hameed, who served as the head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from 2019 to 2021.
The military has stated that these arrests are linked to the ongoing proceedings against Hameed, who is facing a court-martial for “actions prejudicial to military discipline.” According to a military statement released on Thursday, the arrests are part of a wider inquiry into retired officers and their associates who are suspected of “fomenting instability” in collaboration with certain political interests. This comes amid long-standing accusations from political parties and critics that the ISI has been involved in political interference and manipulation.
Hameed was apprehended earlier this week on charges related to a private housing scheme on the outskirts of Islamabad. The military’s investigation, which was conducted following a Supreme Court order, revealed that Hameed allegedly misused his position to unlawfully occupy land within the housing development. The inquiry also uncovered multiple violations of the Pakistan Army Act that Hameed reportedly committed after his retirement.
Hameed’s tenure as ISI chief was marked by significant influence, and he was appointed during the administration of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is now incarcerated. Hameed was replaced by Lieutenant-General Nadeem Anjum in October 2021, a few months before Khan’s political downfall in April 2022. Despite being considered a potential future army chief, Hameed opted for early retirement in December 2022. Under the Pakistan Army Act, retired military officials are prohibited from engaging in political activities for two years following their retirement.
The ongoing investigation and the military’s actions underscore the serious nature of the charges against Hameed and reflect the broader scrutiny of military and political interactions in Pakistan.
