LHC approves bail of Hamza Shahbaz in money laundering case
LHC has directed to release Hamza Shahbaz from the jail
LAHORE (Dunya News) – Lahore High Court (LHC) on Wednesday has approved bail plea of Opposition Leader in Punjab Assembly Hamza Shahbaz in money laundering case after 20 months.
While announcing the verdict on Hamza’s plea after hearing arguments of both sides, the two-member bench of LHC has directed to release the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader from the Kot Lakhpat Jail.
Hamza Shahbaz has been granted bail over two surety bonds of Rs one crore each.
NAB arrests Hamza Shahbaz
On June 11, 2019, the accountability watchdog had arrested Hamza Shahbaz in Ramzan sugar mills, money laundering and assets beyond means cases after LHC turned down his applications for extension in interim bail.
Salman Butt, the defense counsel for Hamza, had argued that according to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) ordinance, the anti-graft watchdog could not issue arrest warrants unless an inquiry over the matter was completed.
To which, Justice Naqvi had remarked that the judgment would be done according to the constitution, and justice would be ensured.
Hamza Shahbaz indicted in money laundering reference
On November 11, 2020, Hamza Shehbaz Sharif and his father Mian Shehbaz Sharif were indicted in money laundering reference by accountability court.
All the accused in the case pleaded not guilty. Shehbaz Sharif, while rejecting allegations of the anti-graft watchdog, said that he was being politically victimized.
