By Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is the leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has been transferred to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi amidst stringent security measures. This move comes after a special court extended his judicial remand until October 10. Imran Khan has been detained due to his alleged involvement in a case related to the Official Secrets Act.
The transfer operation involved a significant deployment of Islamabad police, which included 15 vans, two bullet-proof vehicles, and an ambulance. They transported Imran Khan from Attock Jail to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, passing through the Islamabad toll plaza.
Earlier in the day, Imran Khan had expressed his preference to remain in Attock Jail, stating that he had adjusted to his current confinement there. However, the court recognized his status as a former prime minister and, in accordance with a notification issued by the Punjab Home Department on August 11, granted him better facilities in jail. The court also mentioned that Imran Khan could request gym equipment from the jail superintendent.
Imran Khan had initially been imprisoned in Attock Jail on August 5 following his conviction in the Toshakhana case, but later, he was detained in connection with the cipher case.
During a hearing, the Chief Justice noted that typically, under-trial prisoners from Islamabad are housed in Adiala Jail. He inquired if the case hearing would be moved again if Imran Khan were transferred to Rahim Yar Khan later. The attorney general explained that keeping Imran Khan in Attock was part of the order related to the cipher case, although the order had been issued after his initial incarceration.
The transfer operation to Rawalpindi involved a convoy of at least 18 vehicles, including bullet-proof vehicles and an ambulance. It took place in the evening, with heavy police deployment along two routes leading to the prison, and Rangers and police positioned outside the jail.
Imran Khan shared his preference during a hearing of the cipher case against him in Attock Jail. According to jail officials, he will receive privileges suitable for a former prime minister.
Furthermore, the law ministry issued the necessary clearance for the cipher case hearing to take place in Attock Jail, with the hearing scheduled for the following day, presided over by Special Court Judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain.
