Rawalpindi: Security forces have placed the garrison city of Rawalpindi on high alert following a call for countrywide protests by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The call to action comes after a special court sentenced Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, to 17 years in prison each in the Toshakhana 2 corruption case.
Security Crackdown in Rawalpindi
Authorities have deployed a massive security detail to preempt any major unrest. More than 1,300 police officers and specialized units have been stationed across the city, particularly around the high-security Adiala Jail.
- Personnel Mobilized: The deployment includes Elite Force commandos, Anti-Riot Management Wing members, and Rapid Emergency and Security Operations personnel.
- Infrastructure: 32 pickets have been established at key locations, with major roads blocked by shipping containers to prevent protesters from congregating.
- Legislative Tensions: Adding to the volatility, the right-wing Jamaat-e-Islami has also called for demonstrations against the “Black Local Government Act 2025,” leading to a dual-front security challenge for the Punjab government.
The Verdict: Toshakhana 2 Case
On Saturday, December 20, 2025, Judge Shahrukh Arjumand delivered the judgment inside Adiala Jail.
- The Charges: The couple was convicted of criminal breach of trust and corruption regarding the alleged illegal sale of state gifts received from the Saudi government in 2021.
- The Sentence: 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for criminal breach of trust plus 7 years under anti-corruption laws. A fine of PKR 16.4 million was also imposed on each.
- Legal Defense: Khan has rejected the verdict, calling it a “military-style trial decision” made without fulfilling legal requirements. His legal team intends to challenge the conviction in the High Court.
Message from Adiala Jail
In a statement shared via his social media account on Sunday, Imran Khan urged his supporters and party leaders—specifically KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi—to prepare for a “street movement.”
“The entire nation will have to rise for its rights,” the message stated, claiming the trial was a sham and that he and his wife are being subjected to “mental torture” in solitary confinement.
Global and Family Concerns
While the Pakistan government maintains there is “no embargo” on Khan’s sons, Suleman and Kasim, visiting him from London, the UN has recently urged Pakistan to ensure due process and human rights for the former Prime Minister.
Despite the high tension, no major disturbances were reported by late Sunday evening, though the heavy police presence remains in place across Punjab’s major cities.