A prominent fashion designer, Khadija Shah, has been apprehended by Pakistani authorities as a “key instigator” in the attack on the Corps Commander House, also known as Jinnah House. The assault occurred following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan on May 9, triggering a wave of violence across the country. Khadija Shah, who is the granddaughter of Pakistan’s former Army Chief Asif Nawaz Jangua, is among several women who have been taken into custody for their alleged involvement in attacks on military installations.
The Lahore police have released a statement revealing that Shah, daughter of former finance minister Salman Shah, played a significant role in orchestrating the May 9 attack. Charged with terrorism offenses, she may face trial under the Army Act. Shah, known for her activism in support of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, had evaded arrest by going into hiding.
Following her arrest, Khadija Shah was presented before the anti-terrorism court in Lahore and subsequently sent to jail for an identification parade, as reported by the police. The government has declared the completion of the identification process for over 500 women wanted in connection with the May 9 incidents, leading to the registration of 138 cases against them.
In response to Imran Khan’s arrest by paramilitary Rangers in Islamabad, PTI party workers engaged in violent acts, resulting in the vandalism of numerous military installations. Notable targets included the Lahore Corps Commander’s house, Mianwali airbase, and the ISI building in Faisalabad. Particularly alarming was the attack on the Army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, marking the first time a mob had targeted the facility.
To address the situation, law enforcement agencies swiftly carried out a widespread crackdown, detaining approximately 8,000 individuals, primarily PTI party leaders and workers, on suspicion of involvement in the violent acts. In addition, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has taken action by placing the names of 700 PTI leaders and activists on a no-fly list, ensuring they are unable to leave the country.
The arrest of Khadija Shah, a well-known fashion designer, as a key instigator in the attack on the Corps Commander House underscores the seriousness with which the Pakistani authorities are treating the violent incidents that followed Imran Khan’s arrest. The government’s actions aim to restore law and order, bring those responsible to justice, and maintain the stability and security of the nation.
