ATC Hands Double Life Sentences in Digital Terrorism Cases Linked to May 9 Events

An Islamabad anti-terrorism court has issued strict verdicts in high-profile digital terrorism cases.
The ruling targets journalists, analysts, and online commentators.
These cases relate to online activity surrounding the May 9 events. The decision has drawn wide attention across media circles. It also raises questions about online expression and accountability. Authorities say the verdict follows legal procedure.

Court Issues Double Life Sentences

ATC Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra announced double life sentences on Friday. Those convicted include YouTuber Adil Raja and former army official Syed Akbar Hussain. Journalists Wajahat Saeed, Sabir Shakir, Moeed Pirzada, Shaheen Sehbai, and Haider Mehdi were also sentenced.
The court described the cases as digital terrorism cases against state institutions. Judges linked the charges to content shared after the May 9, 2023 unrest. That unrest followed protests targeting military-related sites. In addition to life terms, the court imposed 35 more years in prison. It also levied combined fines worth Rs1.5 million. Failure to pay could result in further imprisonment.

Trial Held in Absence of Accused

Some convictions stemmed from cases at Aabpara Police Station. These involved Sabir Shakir, Moeed Pirzada, and Syed Akbar Hussain. Separate cases at Ramna Police Station led to other sentences.
The prosecution team, led by Raja Naveed Hussain Kiani, presented 24 witnesses.On request, the court proceeded without the accused present.Most of the convicted individuals currently live abroad.
To ensure representation, the court appointed Advocate Gulfam Ashraf Goraya.He defended the accused during the proceedings.The court noted this process aligns with the Anti-Terrorism Act.
Judges stressed that the law allows trials in absentia.However, they added that legal safeguards must apply.
The verdict now awaits further legal review through appeal.