A significant development has emerged in the murder case of businessman Mir Raza as his business partner, Ahmed Bharde, appeared before the court and formally joined the legal proceedings.
During the hearing at the City Court, Ahmed Bharde appeared before the Additional District and Sessions Judge along with his lawyer, Khalid Mumtaz Advocate. His lawyer argued that police had allegedly been harassing his client, prompting him to seek interim bail.
The court approved Ahmed Bharde's interim bail against surety bonds of Rs1 million and made his appearance part of the judicial proceedings.
His lawyer maintained that Ahmed Bharde wanted to cooperate with the investigation and was ready to appear before police whenever summoned. He also alleged that the former investigating officer had harassed his client.
The complainant's lawyer, Jibran Nasir, rejected the allegation of police harassment and said more than 35 witnesses and other individuals had so far been called as part of the investigation.
Jibran Nasir also expressed concern that granting bail at this stage could encourage other individuals linked to the case to seek similar relief.
The court made it clear that regardless of the status of his bail, Ahmed Bharde would be required to cooperate with the investigation. He was also directed not to leave the city while the investigation remains underway.
The court adjourned further proceedings until August 24 and directed Ahmed Bharde's lawyer to decide at the next hearing whether he intends to withdraw the interim bail application or pursue it.
