A retired major and his associate have been sentenced to life imprisonment by an anti-terrorism court (ATC) for kidnapping a businessman and extorting Rs16 million in ransom. The verdict comes 17 years after the crime was committed.
The court found retired Major Nawazish Akbar and Naveed Khan guilty of abducting Sher Bahadur in 2006 as he was returning from Malir Court. The two extorted Rs7 million in cash and jewelry worth Rs9 million.
Both were also sentenced to additional imprisonment for other charges, including wrongful confinement, car theft, and terrorism-related offenses. Their properties were ordered to be confiscated.
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According to the prosecutor, the case was filed nearly 18 months after the incident. The complaint alleged that Nawazish, a business partner in the victim’s construction company, conspired to kidnap Bahadur after a financial dispute. Nawazish and Naveed were previously accused of fraud and misappropriation within the company, leading to their termination.
The victim testified that he was held captive for six months and subjected to threats, including being coerced into becoming a suicide bomber. Nawazish reportedly transferred company shares and assets to his accomplices during this time.
The court noted extensive documentary evidence supporting the victim’s claims and highlighted delays in justice caused by Nawazish’s influence. This verdict marks the culmination of a years-long legal battle.
