ATC orders immediate arrest of Baldia factory suspects

KARACHI: An Anti-Terrorist Court (ATC) on Saturday has ordered the immediate arrest of the suspects of the Baldia Town factory arson case, ARY News reported.

The court expressed displeasure over the delay in the arrests of the main suspects who have been previously declared absconders and demanded that they be arrested even if they are on their deathbed and presented in the next hearing.

The court was informed that efforts were made for their arrest with the assistance of intelligence agencies but no records were found. The investigation officer informed the court that suspect Hammad Siddiqui and Abdul Rehman alias Bholla had reportedly fled the country.

READ MORE: Baldia factory case: ATC re-issues arrest warrants for Hammad Siddiqui

The court expressed displeasure over the inefficient working of the officers, and questioned how the suspects extorted money, burnt the factory and still managed to escape abroad.

The counsel for factory owners informed the court that the Bhaila brothers were the aggrieved party, and not the culprits which was been portrayed by certain vested interests.

The counsel stated that investigation report has clearly stated that Mutahida Quami Movement was involved after demanding extortion from the factory owners.

The court adjourned proceedings till 18th October after ordering the immediate arrest of the absconding suspects.

At least 250 people were burnt to death after a horrific blaze erupted in the Ali Enterprises factory on 11th September, 2012.