Lieutenant General (Retd.) Faiz Hamid has been formally charged with a range of serious offenses, including involvement in political activities and violations of the Official Secrets Act, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), announced on Tuesday. According to the statement, these violations have compromised national security and state interests.
The charges against the former chief of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) include misuse of authority, misappropriation of government resources, and causing undue losses to individuals. On August 12, the military initiated proceedings for a field general court-martial (FGCM) against Hamid under the provisions of the Pakistan Army Act.
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The ISPR statement detailed that Hamid has been arraigned on charges of engaging in political activities, breaching the Official Secrets Act in ways detrimental to state security, and misusing his official position and resources. The military also indicated that his role in inciting agitation and unrest, including the violent events of May 9, 2023, is under investigation.
The May 9 riots, triggered by the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan in a corruption case, involved attacks on public and military properties. These events prompted the civil-military leadership to pursue cases against the alleged perpetrators under the Army Act.
The ISPR highlighted that Hamid’s alleged involvement in fomenting unrest, in collusion with certain political interests, is a key focus of ongoing investigations. The statement assured that Hamid is being afforded all legal rights under the law.
Brigadier (Retd.) Rashid Wali, speaking to Geo News, emphasized the gravity of the charges and outlined the trial process. He explained that Hamid would be tried in a military court, with the right to appeal following the verdict.
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Background on Hamid’s Arrest
Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Faiz Hamid was taken into military custody earlier this year in August on allegations of abuse of power and breaches of the Army Act. Following orders from the Supreme Court, the Pakistan Army conducted a detailed inquiry into complaints against Hamid, particularly in the “Top City” case.
The investigation reportedly confirmed multiple violations of the Army Act post-retirement, as well as Hamid’s involvement in land grabbing and theft from a private housing society during a raid. These allegations were brought to light through a petition filed by the housing society’s CEO in the Supreme Court.
In connection with the same case, three other retired officers were also detained by the military after Hamid’s arrest.