Someone is providing protection to Rao Anwar: CJP

The decamped SSP Malir Rao Anwaar in the fake encounter and killing of Naqeebullah Mehsud wrote another letter to Supreme Court. Rao Anwar requested in his letter to Supreme Court that his frozen bank accounts should be impounded.

Chief Justice, Saqib Nisar, hearing the murder case under his suo motu notice said that the letter is yet to be confirmed whether it is sent by Rao Anwaar or not. But the letter is included in record of the court. The abscounded SSP had previously sent a letter to Supreme Court stating that he is innocent.

Another member of the bench, Justice Umar Ata Bandial, said that it is obvious that someone is providing of protection to the accused SSP.

Chief Justice also inquired about the help of intelligence agencies in the investigation process from IG Sindh police. IG Khawaja replied that both the intelligence agencies Military Intelligence (MI) and Inter-Service intelligence (ISI) are cooperating with the police.

The Lawyer of Naqbeeullah’s family, Faisal Siddique, said that only 10 accused out of 24 have been arrested so far. But, however, IG Khawaja said that 12 persons have been arrested.

CJP ordered Sindh police to hold an in-camera hearing of Anwar’s escape from Islamabad airport. DG Airport Security Force Major General Ali Abbas Haider has also been summoned at the next hearing on March 16 at Karachi registry.                 

Justice Umer Ata Bandial remarked that it is obvious that someone is providing shelter to the suspects. “Questions raised over state authority is a significant matter. Is Rao Anwar not in political asylum?” inquired the CJP.

“Rao Anwar is not in Sindh. His last location was Bhera. As a responsible officer, I cannot say that he is under political protection,” replied the Sindh IG.

“CCTV might provide some assistance. We want to see them. An in-camera briefing over them will be held in Karachi registry,” directed the CJP.

The court while concluding the arguments also summoned DG airport security on March 16.

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