For the first time in Pakistan’s history, a former intelligence chief, Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed, has been taken into military custody and is facing a court martial over allegations linked to the Top City housing scandal. This unprecedented move follows a detailed investigation ordered by the Supreme Court, uncovering serious violations of the Pakistan Army Act. The case revolves around accusations that Hameed, after his retirement, misused his power to raid the housing scheme’s offices and seize valuables. The court-martial process highlights a significant moment of accountability within Pakistan’s military ranks.
In an unprecedented move, former intelligence chief Faiz Hameed has been detained by the military and is facing a court martial over his involvement in a scandal involving the Top City housing scheme. This marks the first time in Pakistan’s history that a former head of intelligence is being put on trial by the military.
The army’s media wing, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), announced on Monday that this action comes after the Supreme Court of Pakistan directed a thorough investigation into complaints against Hameed. The army has now begun formal disciplinary procedures under the Pakistan Army Act.
The ISPR revealed that the investigation uncovered several violations of the Army Act by Hameed after his retirement. As a result, a Field General Court Martial has been initiated, and Hameed is now in military custody.
Earlier this year, in April, the military set up a committee led by a major general to look into accusations of misuse of power by Hameed, who previously led the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI). This committee was created in response to Supreme Court orders and the Ministry of Defence’s instructions.
The Supreme Court had highlighted the seriousness of the allegations against Hameed, stressing that they could damage the reputation of key national institutions if proven true. The allegations include claims by the management of Top City, a private housing scheme, that Hameed orchestrated a raid on their offices and the residence of its owner, Moeez Khan.
In November 2023, the Supreme Court instructed Khan to seek redress through the relevant authorities, including the defense ministry. An inquiry committee was then formed to investigate and report its findings.
Earlier in March 2023, former Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah had mentioned an ongoing probe into Hameed and his brother Najaf over allegations of corruption and illicit wealth. Najaf was later sent to jail in March 2024 on charges related to corruption and assets acquired through dubious means.
General Hameed had requested early retirement in November 2022 and was among the top generals considered for senior military positions. He had previously faced criticism from political figures for alleged involvement in controversial actions against them and support for the previous government.
According to a petition, on May 12, 2017, ISI and Pakistan Rangers raided Top City and Khan’s residence, seizing valuables. The petition claims that Hameed’s brother Najaf attempted to mediate and later, Hameed offered to return some of the seized items in exchange for a large bribe and sponsorship of a private TV network. Other former ISI officials are also accused of being involved in the illegal takeover of the housing society.
This dramatic turn of events highlights the significant legal and ethical scrutiny facing high-ranking military officials and underscores a momentous chapter in Pakistan’s history.
