The Lahore High Court on Tuesday granted interim bail to Ameer Fateh, a suspect in the murder case of Javed Butt, who was the brother-in-law of underworld figure Teefi Butt, restraining police from arresting him until January 22.

The interim bail application was heard by Justice Amjad Rafique. Advocate Abid Saqi appeared on behalf of the petitioner and argued that Ameer Fateh had been falsely implicated in the murder case and had no connection with the incident.

The lawyer maintained that the sessions court had rejected bail contrary to the facts and assured the court that the suspect was ready to fully cooperate with the investigation.

Court questions presence of suspect

During the hearing, Justice Amjad Rafique asked about the whereabouts of the suspect. Advocate Saqi informed the court that Ameer Fateh was present around the high court premises but could not enter due to heavy police deployment.

Justice Rafique remarked, “What is the order for me, should I go outside? How do we know that the suspect is being stopped?”
The judge also questioned how the court could accept claims that the suspect was being prevented from appearing without verification.

Produced under tight security

As journalists present in the courtroom were asked to confirm the heavy police presence outside, Justice Rafique directed the SP (security) to produce the suspect before the court.

Following the court order, Ameer Fateh was produced in the courtroom under strict supervision and tight security arrangements. A heavy police contingent was deployed at all entry and exit gates of the Lahore High Court during his appearance.

Interim bail granted till Jan 22

After Ameer Fateh was presented before the court, Justice Rafique granted him interim bail until January 22. The court directed the suspect to submit surety bonds worth Rs50,000 and restrained the police from arresting him during the interim period.

The Lahore High Court also sought a detailed investigation report from the police to be submitted at the next hearing. Following the court order, Ameer Fateh was sent back from the high court under security.

The hearing was adjourned for a short time, with the case now scheduled to resume after the submission of the police report.