Pakistan arrests 3 more retired officers in ex-intelligence chief’s corruption case

Pakistan’s military has arrested three more retired officers in connection with the ongoing investigation against former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Gen. Faiz Hameed, who is facing a court-martial on charges of corruption and misuse of power.

Military’s statement on arrests, investigation

The Pakistan Army confirmed the arrests on Thursday, stating that they are part of the proceedings against Hameed, who led the ISI from 2019 to 2021 during the tenure of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

According to the military, these officers are being investigated for “actions prejudicial to military discipline.” The military also mentioned that it is probing some retired officers and their accomplices for “fomenting instability at the behest of, and in collusion with, vested political interests.”

Background on Gen. Hameed’s Case

Gen. Hameed’s court-martial follows the completion of an inquiry ordered by Pakistan’s Supreme Court, stemming from a complaint by a real estate developer.

The developer accused Hameed of misusing his office to illegally occupy land in a housing scheme on the outskirts of Islamabad.

Additionally, the military cited “multiple instances of violation of the Pakistan Army Act” after Hameed’s retirement, further intensifying the charges against him.

Political implications, historical context

Hameed’s tenure as ISI chief was marked by controversy, particularly regarding his close association with Imran Khan.

Political analysts suggest that the dispute over Hameed’s role contributed to a rift between Khan and then-Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, ultimately leading to Khan’s ouster through a parliamentary confidence vote in early 2022.

Pakistan’s military, which has ruled the country for more than 30 of its 77 years of independence, continues to play a crucial role in the nation’s political landscape, often being accused of influencing government affairs.