Pakistan Court Hands Ex-ISI Chief Faiz Hameed 14-Year Jail Term for Violating the Official Secrets Act

A military court in Pakistan has handed former Inter Services Intelligence chief Faiz Hameed a 14 year prison sentence after a set of charges were upheld against him during an extensive legal review.

The verdict marks one of the most significant actions taken against a senior intelligence figure in recent years.

Charges and Court Findings

According to Associated Press, the Field General Court Martial found Hameed guilty of engaging in political activities and violating the Official Secrets Act, along with other serious offenses.

"The accused was tried on four charges related to engaging in political activities, violation of the Official Secrets Act detrimental to the safety and interest of the state, misuse of authority and government resources, and causing wrongful loss to individuals," the military court stated, as reported by AP.

Officials said the proceedings were "lengthy and laborious" before concluding with a 14 year imprisonment term.

Background and Past Influence

Hameed, who once helmed Pakistan's powerful intelligence agency, was regarded as a key figure in the country's political and security landscape. He served as ISI Director General between 2019 and 2021 and held considerable influence during his tenure.

His appointment to the top post came after then ISI chief and now Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir was removed. Hameed was also widely seen as close to former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been in jail on multiple charges since 2023.

Detention and Investigation

Hameed was taken into custody last year after Pakistan's Supreme Court ordered an internal inquiry into allegations connected to the Top City project scam. The company behind the project had been acquiring land near Islamabad for a private housing development.

Though the military has not disclosed further specifics regarding the charges, the conviction stands as part of a broader push for accountability within Pakistan's security institutions.

Broader Implications

The sentencing of a former ISI chief underscores shifting power dynamics in Pakistan's political and military environment. It also signals a willingness on the part of the establishment to pursue legal action against high ranking officers once considered untouchable.

The development has sparked significant attention both within Pakistan and internationally as observers assess its long term impact on the country's governance and military oversight.