Former Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister and PTI Leaders Arrested in Peshawar

PESHAWAR: Khalid Khurshid Khan, the former chief minister of Gilgit-Baltistan and regional president of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was arrested late Sunday night along with KP Assembly Speaker Babar Saleem Swati and several other party leaders at the speaker’s residence in Peshawar. The police confirmed that Khurshid is wanted in connection with multiple criminal cases.

The arrest was reported via the party’s official social media channels, with a police source stating that Khurshid had been evading capture by staying at the KP chief minister’s residence since early 2023. Following the imposition of emergency measures and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he relocated to the assembly speaker’s house, where the arrests took place.

This development raises significant concerns regarding the ongoing political climate in Pakistan, particularly for the PTI, which has faced increasing scrutiny and legal challenges in recent months. The implications of these arrests could further destabilize the party’s leadership and influence in the region, especially as it navigates a complex political landscape.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether Khurshid will be transferred to Gilgit-Baltistan for court proceedings or taken to another location. As investigations continue, the PTI is expected to respond to these developments in the coming days, potentially impacting their strategy and public support.