The initiation of an inquiry against retired Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed, the former Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), has stirred significant attention in Pakistan. Here’s a breakdown of the key points surrounding the inquiry:
- Allegations and Inquiry Committee: The Pakistan Army has formed an inquiry committee, headed by a Major General, to investigate allegations against Lt Gen (r) Faiz Hameed. These allegations were raised by the owner of a private housing society and involve incidents related to a raid by Pakistan Rangers and ISI officials, purported coercion, and offers to return seized items.
- Genesis of the Inquiry: The inquiry stems from a petition filed by the owner of the housing society, detailing events involving Lt Gen (r) Faiz Hameed and his associates. Allegations include raids, seizure of valuables, and coercion to pay a substantial sum of cash and sponsor a private television network. The petitioner also mentioned the involvement of other individuals in the affair.
Also Read: Faizabad Sit-in Inquiry Commission Clears Retired Gen Faiz Hameed of Wrongdoing
- Court Proceedings: The matter has been brought before the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar had previously addressed the issue, ordering the destruction of relevant records. The court suggested pursuing the matter through appropriate channels, indicating that civil or criminal courts could address allegations of malicious prosecution.
- Previous Investigations: Lt Gen (r) Faiz Hameed was also recently cleared of any wrongdoing in the Faizabad sit-in case probe. An inquiry commission found no evidence supporting allegations of distributing money among protest participants during the 2017 sit-in. The commission recommended legal action against individuals based on government findings and reinstating cases against the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) during the dharna.
These developments underscore the complex legal and judicial landscape in Pakistan, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency in governmental and military affairs.
