PTI leader Hammad Azhar reportedly arrested in Multan

Former National Assembly member and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Hammad Azhar has been arrested, Aaj News reported citing police sources.

According to police sources, Azhar was arrested in Multan and subsequently handed over to Lahore police.

Police said Azhar was wanted in connection with several cases related to the May 9, 2023, unrest and had been declared a proclaimed offender since May 9, 2023.

Following his arrest, Azhar is being transferred to Lahore, where he is expected to be questioned in connection with cases registered over the May 9 incidents, sources said.

His arrest comes as legal proceedings continue against several PTI leaders and workers in cases related to the May 9, 2023, violence and unrest.

On May 9, 2023, widespread violent protests erupted across Pakistan following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan. Protesters, identified by the government as PTI supporters, targeted military installations, including the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi and the Corps Commander’s House (Jinnah House) in Lahore, setting it on fire. They also vandalised monuments of martyrs, attacked the Radio Pakistan Peshawar building, and set ablaze police vehicles and security posts.

These incidents resulted in at least 14 deaths and hundreds of injuries, including police and law enforcement agency personnel. Over 10,000 PTI members were reportedly arrested subsequently.