ISLAMABAD – A special court at Adiala Jail has sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi to 10 years in prison each. An additional seven-year term under Section 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code was also imposed, along with a fine exceeding Rs16 million. The verdict relates to the Toshakhana 2 case.
The investigation, initially conducted by NAB and later by FIA, focused on alleged irregularities in gifts received under the Toshakhana rules. Khan and Bushra Bibi were accused of illegally retaining a valuable Bulgari jewelry set gifted by the Saudi crown prince during their May 2021 visit to Saudi Arabia.
The jewelry set included a necklace, bracelet, ring, and earrings. According to investigators, the couple failed to declare and deposit the items’ value as instructed by the deputy military secretary on May 18, 2021. The total estimated value of the set was Rs75.66 million, of which Rs32.85 million was allegedly lost to the national treasury due to undervaluation.
Toshakhana 2 Case Timeline:
- January 7, 2024: NAB inquiry began, completed by July 12.
- July 13, 2024: Arrest of Khan and Bushra Bibi.
- August 20, 2024: Reference filed in court.
- September 6, 2024: Petition challenging NAB amendments submitted to Supreme Court.
- September 9, 2024: Case transferred to FIA.
- September 16, 2024: First appearance before Special Judge.
- October 23, 2024: Bail granted by Islamabad High Court under Section 4-A.
During hearings, the accused submitted amended statements under Section 342 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and did not call defense witnesses. The court adjourned proceedings to December 17 for the prosecution’s final arguments.
The Toshakhana 2 case highlights growing scrutiny over public officials’ handling of state gifts. This follows previous rulings against Khan, including a 14-year sentence earlier this year, later suspended by the Islamabad High Court. Meanwhile, senior PTI leaders face separate charges related to May 9, 2023 riots after Imran’s arrest.
In other news read more about Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi Sentenced to 17 Years in Toshakhana 2.0 Case
The verdict in the Toshakhana 2 case marks a significant development in Pakistan’s anti-corruption efforts and reinforces accountability in handling state assets.
