PTI leader Omar Ayub declared absconder in October 4 protest case; passport and ID card ordered blocked

ISLAMABAD: An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Pakistan’s capital has declared senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Omar Ayub an absconder in the October 4 protest case, escalating legal pressure on one of the party’s top figures.

Judge Tahir Abbas Supra of the ATC Islamabad issued the ruling after Ayub repeatedly failed to appear before the court despite multiple summons. The case involves charges filed under anti-terrorism provisions at Islamabad’s Noon Police Station.

In a significant move, the court also ordered authorities to block Ayub’s passport and national identity card, effectively restricting his travel and official transactions. Additionally, the ATC has sought details of his properties, an action that could lead to further legal or financial proceedings.

Omar Ayub, a senior PTI leader and former federal minister, faces several cases linked to protests following political tensions in the country. His party has accused the government of using anti-terrorism laws for political repression — a claim authorities deny.

This development adds to the widening legal challenges for PTI leadership, drawing international attention to Pakistan’s ongoing political and judicial confrontations.