Former Pakistan Intelligence Chief Sentenced to 14 Years for State Secret Violations and Political Interference

Pakistan's former intelligence agency chief has been handed a 14-year prison sentence for state secret violations and authority abuse, according to an army announcement on Thursday.

Faiz Hameed received the conviction for "engaging in political activities" and causing "wrongful loss to persons," as stated in the army's official release. He served from 2019 to 2021 during former Prime Minister Imran Khan's administration.

Known as a loyal Khan supporter, Hameed had openly confronted military leadership. Following Khan's removal from power, he opted for early retirement. Subsequently, he was stripped of all military rank after being accused of multiple violations of the Pakistan Army Act.

Authorities detained Hameed in August last year following allegations that he conducted unauthorized raids on a real estate developer's businesses.

"After lengthy and laborious legal proceedings, the accused has been found guilty on all charges and sentenced to 14 years rigorous imprisonment by the court," the military statement confirmed. The army further noted that a separate investigation into accusations of "fomenting vested political agitation and instability in cohorts with political elements" remains ongoing.

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that Hameed had been "interfering with politics" by continuing to advise Khan after his retirement.

"Violations of the Official Secrets Act, the illegitimate use of authority, misusing one's office to harm people, and getting involved in politics to spread chaos -- these things were all proven," Tarar wrote in a post on social platform X.

Within Pakistan's power structure, the intelligence chief position ranks as the second most influential role in the military establishment.

Imran Khan was removed from office in April 2022 following a no-confidence vote. Since then, he has publicly accused the military, current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the United States of orchestrating his downfall.

(With inputs from agencies)