PTI to sue Jang group, businessman over toshakhana allegations

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published 3 years ago

ISLAMABAD—PTI Chairman Imran Khan has vowed to file a case against Geo and Shahzeb Khanzada for defaming him over the toshakhana issue.

In a tweet, he said that "Geo and Khanzada, supported by 'handlers,' slandered me through a baseless story cooked up by a known fraudster and internationally wanted criminal."

"I have spoken to my lawyers and I plan to sue Geo, Khanzada and the fraudster not only in Pak but also in UK and UAE."

Dubai businessman Umar Farooq Zahoor claimed on Geo News' show Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Ke Saath that he had bought a graphic wristwatch for $2 million through former accountability minister Shahzad Akbar and Farah Gogi. The government sold it. Zahoor added that the payment was made in cash.

PTI Senior Vice President Fawad Chaudhry announced in a press conference that PTI would take legal action against Zahoor and Jang Group, as he rejected the allegations.

PTI leaders roundly rejected the claim, including Akbar, who denied Zahoor's allegations.

According to Fawad, Zahoor is said to be an influential businessman and was reportedly wanted by Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, and Pakistan for various financial and other crimes since 2009-10.

He added that Zahoor was also accused of illegally taking his minor daughters abroad after obtaining passports with fake names and parentage, even though the Lahore High Court had already ordered them to do so. His name was called to be included in the exit control list.

Fawad alleged that Zahoor took Akbar's name because the former accountability minister wanted him to return to Pakistan.

The toshakhana case became a flashpoint in national politics when the Election Commission of Pakistan disqualified Imran Khan for misrepresenting facts.