LAHORE: A sessions court on Monday extended the interim bail granted to estranged PTI leader Jahangir Tareen and his son Ali Tareen in two different cases until May 19.
The father-son duo appeared before the session court and banking court for the extension of their bail. They were accompanied by a large number of PTI lawmakers to show solidarity including MNA Raja Riaz, Mubeen Alam Anwer, Khawaja Shiraz, Ghulam Lali, Nauman Langrial and Sami Gilani.
The Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) investigation officer informed the courts that statements of the accused are being recorded and investigation has not yet been completed.
Tareen’s lawyer stated that the head of a joint investigation team (JIT) investigating the cases has not issued notice to his client, adding that Tareen will turn up whenever summoned.
The sessions and banking courts gave the investigation officer a final chance to complete the investigation. It extended the interim bail of Tareen and his son until the next hearing on May 19.
Speaking to the media after appearing before the courts, Jahangir Tareen said his meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan took place in a cordial atmosphere. He said the prime minister assured him of addressing his reservations. He denied having any contact with the PML-N or PPP.
Last week, the government changed the head of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) led joint investigation team (JIT) probing a sugar crisis in the country.
The government replaced FIA Lahore Director Dr Muhammad Rizwan with Additional Director Abu Bakar Khuda Baksh as an inquiry officer.
Tareen and his son are accused of money laundering and fraud worth Rs3.14 billion. An FIR of the case states that Jahangir Tareen allegedly transferred illegal shares worth billions of rupees to Farooqi Pulp Mills Limited, which is owned by his son and close relatives.
It said the transfers were fraudulent investments which ultimately translated into personal gains for Jahangir’s family. Some Rs3 billion were invested and laundered through the same factory.
