ATC Approves Four-Day Physical Remand for Umm-e-Hassan, 12 Others in Government Attack Case
The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Islamabad has granted a four-day physical remand for 13 individuals, including Umm-e-Hassan, the wife of Maulana Abdul Aziz of Lal Masjid, in connection with an attack and firing incident involving government employees.
ATC Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra presided over the hearing, during which the suspects—six women and seven men—were presented before the court on Thursday. The case, registered under anti-terrorism laws at Shahzad Town Police Station, pertains to a dispute over a mosque’s construction on a plot allocated by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for a madrassah.
Read More: The drama outside Lal Masjid evokes unpleasant memories.
Incident Details
According to police reports, the accused allegedly attacked and fired at CDA officials and police personnel when authorities visited the site to negotiate. The suspects reportedly seized construction materials, vandalized government vehicles, and fired bullets that struck official cars. Anti-riot kits were also taken from law enforcement officers.
Court Proceedings
The prosecution sought a five-day physical remand to recover additional evidence, including weapons. However, Judge Sipra questioned the necessity of the remand, stating, “When the accused were arrested on the spot, what do you want to recover?” The court ultimately approved a four-day remand.
The defense argued that Umm-e-Hassan and others were wrongfully detained while negotiating with officials. Her lawyer contended, “They were arrested from the mosque; what evidence is left to recover?” In response, Judge Sipra noted that Umm-e-Hassan was already wanted in four other cases.
Religious Site Disputes
During the hearing, the judge expressed concerns over recurring conflicts related to places of worship, remarking, “Why do disputes arise over mosques, churches, temples, and Imambargahs? When will we stop fighting over places of worship?”
Ongoing Investigation
The police have vowed to apprehend other accomplices involved in the incident. A pistol was reportedly recovered from one of the arrested individuals. The case was filed by Magistrate Murtaza Chandio, with authorities emphasizing strict legal action against those obstructing government operations.
