Pakistan: Arrest warrants issued for Salman, Lucman, Dhedhi, Hanif

An Islamabad Court on Thursday issued arrest warrants for the owner of ARY Network Salman Iqbal, anchorperson Mubashir Lucman, Akeel Karim Dhedhi and Naeem Hanif in a criminal case pertaining to defaming Jang/Geo group.

Additional District and Session Judge Islamabad (West) Wajid Ali was hearing the criminal complaint filed by Independent Media Corporation against Salman Iqbal and five others including anchor Mubashir Lucman. During the hearing, the court issued the arrest warrants for Salman Iqbal, Mubashir Lucman, Akeel Karim Dhedhi and Naeem Hanif on failing to appear before the court in person.

Two other respondents in the case, bureau chief Islamabad Sabir Shakir and bureau chief Lahore Arif Hameed, appeared before the court and were ordered to submit Rs50,000 surety bonds for their bail.

The court had summoned them all during today’s hearing.

The respondents were alleged to have defamed and make serious allegations against senior journalists and top management of Pakistan’s largest and most popular media group, Geo and Jang. The court had assigned the case to an inquiry officer who submitted his findings in the court. It was prayed that the accused be proceeded under sections 500 and 501 of PPC.