Former ISI Chief Lt Gen (Retd) Faiz Hamid Arrested Over Land Grabbing Allegations
In a significant development, the former chief of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Lieutenant General (retd) Faiz Hamid, has been taken into military custody following allegations of land grabbing and misconduct. The arrest, announced by the military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), comes after a detailed inquiry ordered by the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
Supreme Court’s Orders Lead to Inquiry
The Pakistan Army, in compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives, initiated a court of inquiry to investigate complaints related to the Top City Case involving the former spymaster. The inquiry revealed multiple violations of the Pakistan Army Act, both during and after his retirement. As a result, disciplinary proceedings under the Pakistan Army Act have been launched against Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid.
Field General Court Martial Initiated
The ISPR’s statement confirmed that the process of a Field General Court Martial has begun, and Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid is now in military custody. The arrest stems from a petition filed by the CEO of a private housing society, accusing the ex-ISI chief of land grabbing and theft during a raid.
Allegations of Misconduct and Abuse of Power
The petition, submitted to the Supreme Court’s human rights cell last year, accused Lt Gen (retd) Hamid of a range of serious offenses, including the illegal raid on the petitioner’s residence and business offices, wrongful detention, and the forced transfer of business properties. The petition also claimed that Hamid misused his position within the ISI to commit these acts, causing significant harm to the petitioner and his family.
Supreme Court’s Involvement
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, heard the case and directed the petitioner to pursue the matter through the appropriate legal channels. The court’s written order emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, stating that they could severely damage the reputation of the Federal Government, the Armed Forces, ISI, and Pakistan Rangers.
Background of Lt Gen (Retd) Faiz Hamid
Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid, who sought early retirement in November 2022, was previously a top contender for the highest military positions in Pakistan. Before his retirement, he served as the corps commander in Peshawar and Bahawalpur.
This case marks a rare instance of a high-ranking former military officer being held accountable for alleged misconduct, signaling the judiciary’s and the military’s willingness to address serious accusations against even the most senior officials.