Sat Dec 21 11:45:23 UTC 2024: ## Pakistani Military Courts Sentence 25 to Prison for May 9 Riots
**Islamabad, Pakistan –** Twenty-five civilians have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from two to ten years by Pakistani military courts for their involvement in the May 9 riots, the Army announced on Saturday. The riots, sparked by the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, saw supporters of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party attack several military installations, including the Army headquarters in Rawalpindi and the ISI building in Faisalabad.
The Army statement described the May 9 events as a “dark chapter in the history of Pakistan,” characterizing the attacks as “politically provoked violence” and “political terrorism.” Fourteen individuals received the maximum sentence of ten years, while others received shorter terms. The military emphasized that this is the first phase of sentencing, with further convictions expected to be announced soon. The trials are taking place in both military and anti-terrorism courts.
The Army vowed to pursue justice against the “mastermind” behind the riots, stressing its commitment to upholding the law and rooting out violence-driven politics. All convicts retain the right to appeal, in line with Pakistani law. The convictions primarily relate to attacks on key military sites, including Jinnah House and the General Headquarters. Hundreds were arrested following the riots; at least 103 were handed over to military authorities for trial.
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