The ex-ISI chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed has been taken into military custody as disciplinary action is taken by the Pakistan Army.
The measure is a part of the military’s internal accountability process, with a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) now in progress to address the charges against the retired officer.
Following a Supreme Court order, the Pakistan Army carried out a thorough investigation in response to the allegations against Hameed, specifically relating to the Top City Case.
As per the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the investigation verified several breaches of the Pakistan Army Act after retirement. Consequently, Hameed has been placed in military custody after appropriate disciplinary action was taken in accordance with the Pakistan Army Act.
Allegations and inquiry details
Moeez Khan brought up accusations against Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed for abusing his power and office, which first came to light when he approached the Supreme Court as the owner of Top City society.
In November 2023, the Supreme Court ruled that these accusations were grave and ordered an investigation. The investigation, overseen by a major general, was carried out in accordance with the orders of the Supreme Court.
The allegations first surfaced in May 2017, claiming that Pakistan Rangers and ISI officials conducted a raid on the office of Top City society and a resident’s home, confiscating valuables such as gold, diamonds, and cash.
The petitioner argued that after being acquitted, Faiz Hameed’s brother tried to intervene in the situation. It is claimed that Hameed communicated through a brigadier, proposing to give back some items taken during the raid while keeping a large amount of the gold and money.
The person filing the complaint claimed that former ISI officials used pressure to make them pay a large amount of money and support a private TV channel. The petition provided information about the participation of other persons, such as retired Brigadier Naeem Fakhar, retired Brigadier Ghaffar, and Irtiza Haroon.
In court, it came to light that the issue had already been handled by the Human Rights Cell of the Supreme Court. The ex-Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar had directed the disposal of pertinent documents, while the present Supreme Court advised the petitioner to deal with the issue using proper legal means.
The Pakistan Army has restated its dedication to holding its members accountable, guaranteeing that justice is achieved through the proper legal channels. The current Field General Court Martial of Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed represents a noteworthy progression as the army deals with the grave accusations involving the ex-ISI chief.
