May 9 riots: Army dismisses three officers including Lt Gen from service

Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Maj-Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that the events of May 9 were "undoubtedly" a conspiracy against Pakistan and one which was being planned for months.  Live: Director General Inter Services Public Relations Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry addressing a press conference in #Rawalpindi@OfficialDGISPRhttps://t.co/CQ6wWwA5d8 — Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) June 26, 2023 The military spokesperson said the purpose of addressing the media today was to provide "facts" regarding the events of May 9. Riots broke out after the arrest of the PTI chief, with rioters targetting military facilities and monuments dedicated to the martyrs.  During the press conference, Maj Gen Sharif also played a video montage with testimonies from family members of the martyrs.  "The incident of May 9 is extremely disappointing, condemnable and a black chapter in the history of our country," said the spokesperson and added that what the enemies of the country could not achieve in 76 years, some "miscreants and their facilitators did".  He also said that the incident was “undoubtedly a conspiracy against Pakistan”. "The events of May 9 will neither be forgotten, nor will planners and facilitators of it be forgiven." "The investigation carried out till now has proven that May 9 was being planned for the past several months," elaborated the major-general and added that "under this planning, first a conducive environment was created and people were instigated and provoked against the army". He further said a "narrative based on lies and exaggeration was spread on social media inside and outside the country" and authorities have obtained evidence for the same.  Revealing details regarding punishments meted out to military officers who failed in their duties on May 9, Maj-Gen Sharif said one three-star officer - a lieutenant general - has been terminated from service.  "From punishments handed out, you may believe that the military does not discriminate when holding accountable its own." He added that inquiry commissions, headed by major-general rank officers, were carried out following the events of May 9.  "Following a deliberate accountability process, disciplinary proceedings were initiated against those who failed to maintain the security and honour of military garrisons, installations, Jinnah House and General Headquarters." "Three officers, including a lieutenant-general, have been fired and disciplinary proceedings against other officers, including three major generals and seven brigadiers, have been completed." Referring to trials in military courts, Sharif said those being tried will have the right of appeal in the apex court. He said that military courts have remained active under the Pakistan Army Act, and 102 cases are currently under trial.  He reiterated that everyone who was involved in the events of May 9 will be held accountable. "A granddaughter of a retired four-star general and the son-in-law of another four-star general are also in military custody," said DG ISPR.    

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