An anti-terrorism court in Islamabad handed down sentences to 10 suspects in the May 9 case, sources said on Friday. ATC judge Tahir Abbas Sipra issued the order.

Violent protests broke out when former prime minister Imran Khan was arrested within the premises of the Islamabad High Court on May 9, 2023. Protesters had attacked state buildings, and military installations, including the Jinnah House in Lahore.

The government has maintained that law would take its course and the people involved in the May 9 incidents would be brought to the court of law.

Among those sentenced are Islamabad residents Abid Mahmood, son of Muhammad Saqib, and Ahsan Ayaz, son of Muhammad Ayaz and Bajaur resident Naeemullah, son of Abdul Qadir.

Others include Rawalpindi resident Mattiullah, son of Ameen Khan, Islamabad resident Shaukat, son of Fazal Dad, and Bajaur resident Zakirullah, son of Bismillah Khan.

Notably, four of the sentenced individuals are Afghan nationals residing in various areas of Pakistan.

Sources revealed that the Afghan convicts sentenced in the May 9 case include Dawood Khan, son of Hajo Khan, Younis Khan, son of Khan Muhammad, Ehsanullah, son of Ziaul Haq, and Lal Agha, son of Khan Agha.

The sentences for convicted individuals range from up to six years in prison along with fines.

A total of 17 individuals were named in the FIR 626/24 registered on May 10. Among the accused, one suspect was acquitted after investigation while six remain at large, and sentences have been handed down to 10 others.

Moreover, non-bailable arrest warrants have been issued for fugitive criminals, with orders to present them in court as soon as they are apprehended.

According to sources, authorities have made it clear that no leniency would be shown towards those involved in anti-state activities under the guise of protests, including the masterminds and facilitators of such actions.