Reports of Another High-Profile Arrest
Fresh reports from Lahore suggest that Sher Shah, the younger son of Aleema Khan, has been taken into custody. Aleema Khan is the sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
According to sources, the arrest took place near Sher Shah’s residence. He was reportedly returning home from court with his father when unidentified men intercepted and detained him.
Connection to Brother’s Detention
This development comes just a day after Sher Shah’s elder brother, Shahrez Khan, was arrested in connection with the May 9, 2023 riots. Shahrez’s arrest drew widespread attention, especially after an anti-terrorism court approved his eight-day physical remand full story here.
Family sources told local media that the same individuals involved in Shahrez’s arrest were also present during Sher Shah’s detention. Police officers were said to be on the scene, although officials have not yet issued a formal statement.
Background: May 9 Protests and Crackdown
The detentions of Aleema Khan’s sons appear linked to investigations surrounding the violent events of May 9 last year. That day, large-scale protests erupted across Pakistan following the arrest of Imran Khan. Demonstrators attacked public buildings, military facilities, and the Lahore Corps Commander’s residence, known as Jinnah House.
Authorities described the incidents as coordinated attempts to undermine state institutions. In response, security forces launched a sweeping crackdown on PTI leaders, workers, and supporters. Thousands were arrested under terrorism and public order charges.
Rights organizations, including Amnesty International and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, raised concerns about the scale of detentions and the use of anti-terrorism laws against political opponents.
Family in the Political Spotlight
Aleema Khan, a businesswoman and philanthropist, has often been a vocal supporter of her brother’s political party. While she has not held public office, her family has increasingly found itself in the spotlight since Imran Khan’s ouster in April 2022.
The detention of her two sons, within days of each other, has added to political tensions in Lahore. PTI supporters argue that the arrests are part of a wider campaign to pressure the former prime minister’s family and close associates.
Lack of Official Confirmation
As of now, police have not released any official statement confirming Sher Shah’s detention or explaining the charges. The absence of formal acknowledgment has fueled speculation on social media, with PTI sympathizers calling it another example of alleged “enforced disappearances.”
Legal experts note that under Pakistani law, authorities must present an arrested person before a court within 24 hours. Failure to do so often leads to accusations of unlawful detention.
Broader Context of Political Unrest
Imran Khan’s removal from power has left Pakistan’s political climate polarized. While his party remains popular among segments of the population, PTI has faced severe restrictions, arrests, and defections since last year’s protests.
The May 9 events continue to shape the political and legal landscape. Dozens of PTI leaders have faced trials in anti-terrorism courts, while Imran Khan himself has been convicted in multiple cases. Though courts have granted him bail in some May 9-related cases, he remains behind bars on other charges.
What Happens Next
If confirmed, Sher Shah’s detention will likely be challenged in court by his family’s legal team. His mother and party leaders are expected to raise the issue publicly, adding pressure on authorities to clarify the circumstances.
Observers believe the arrests of Aleema Khan’s sons highlight the state’s ongoing pursuit of PTI figures linked—directly or indirectly—to the May 9 unrest. With political tensions running high, these cases are expected to remain a flashpoint in Pakistan’s turbulent political scene.
