Army court sentences Adil Raja to 14 years in prison over espionage. A military court in Pakistan has handed down significant sentences to two retired army officers, Major (Retired) Adil Farooq Raja and Captain (Retired) Haider Raza Mehdi.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media arm of the Pakistan Army, revealed that the officers were convicted through a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) under the Pakistan Army Act, 1952.
The charges against them include inciting sedition among army personnel, violating the Official Secrets Act, of 1923 with regard to espionage, and engaging in activities prejudicial to the safety and interest of the State.
According to the ISPR statement, the court of competent jurisdiction completed the judicial process, resulting in the convictions on October 7th and 9th, 2023.
Major (Retired) Adil Farooq Raja received a sentence of 14 years of rigorous imprisonment, while Captain (Retired) Haider Raza Mehdi was sentenced to 12 years of rigorous imprisonment.
Additionally, both officers had their ranks forfeited as of November 21, 2023.
Of note is Major (Retired) Adil Farooq Raja, who gained prominence as a retired major of the Pakistan Army and a social media figure.
Recognized for his unwavering support of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and vocal criticism of Pakistan’s military establishment, Raja had been residing in London in recent times.
He is a graduate of the Pakistan Military Academy, holding a bachelor’s degree in general science, military science, and international relations. Furthering his academic pursuits, he earned a master’s degree from the University of Peshawar.
Reportedly having left Pakistan some time ago, Major (Retired) Adil Farooq Raja’s parents still reside in the country. He has a background as a war-wounded veteran, boasting extensive experience in security, politics, and consultancy.
As Army court sentences Adil Raja to 14 years in prison over espionage, notably, Raja served as a contractor for DHA Islamabad and currently represents the US-based International Human Rights Foundation as its Pakistan representative.
His role as a popular blogger and geopolitical and defense analyst has seen him regularly contributing to media discussions on current affairs and international relations.
Despite his physical absence from Pakistan, the recent legal proceedings have resulted in the forfeiture of his military rank.
