The formal trial for the May 9 attack on the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi commenced today, with the prosecution presenting eyewitness testimony and evidence in a hearing held at Adiala Jail. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan was present during the proceedings.

Judge Amjad Ali Shah presided over the hearing, where four eyewitnesses from the Rawalpindi police – ASI Saqib, Constables Shakil, Sajjad, and Yasir – gave their statements. The witnesses presented crucial evidence seized from the accused, including a helmet allegedly taken from anti-riot forces, petrol bombs, fragments of statues damaged during the attack, and mobile phones.

Additional evidence presented included sticks, flags, PTI caps, matches, and wires. One mobile phone was reportedly discovered during the court proceedings themselves.

During their testimonies, the witnesses identified several accused, including Raja Basharat, who was present in the courtroom. One witness stated that Raja Basharat led the protests outside the GHQ and incited the protestors to retaliate against the army for the arrest of Imran Khan.

The courtroom was crowded with accused, lawyers, prosecution members, and media representatives. Tensions ran high, with heated exchanges between defense lawyers and the prosecution team. Due to the noise from the accused, the court utilized a sound system to record the testimonies and issued warnings to maintain order. Imran Khan remained present throughout the witness testimonies.

The court summoned five additional prosecution witnesses for the next hearing and adjourned the proceedings until January 18. The trial is expected to continue with further witness testimonies and the presentation of additional evidence.