KARACHI: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Wednesday expressed strong dissatisfaction with the police investigation into the case against Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Farhan Ghani and other accused, questioning the lack of progress despite repeated remands.

Farhan Ghani and co-accused were produced before the court where Advocate Waqar Abbasi filed the power of attorney on behalf of the defence. The prosecution sought an extension of two days’ remand, prompting the court to grill the investigating officer (IO).

The judge asked the IO how many statements under Section 161 had been recorded so far and what progress had been made in the case. “What will you achieve in three more days when you have done nothing until now?” the court remarked.

The bench further reprimanded the IO over the use of sniffer dogs, questioning whether “the dogs were dead or incapable,” and added that they seemed fit only for detecting narcotics rather than conducting serious investigations. The court also asked about the role of the CIA and SIU, remarking that “they appear to be dead as well.”

The judge observed that the police seemed more interested in harassing ordinary citizens than pursuing meaningful investigations. “Will you become a DSP after this case?” the court asked the IO sarcastically.

During the hearing, the court also referred to complaints about customised number plates, noting that even a judge had applied for one but was left waiting despite having paid the required fees. “Citizens apply and pay money, but they are humiliated instead of receiving services,” the court remarked.

The IO admitted that the complainant had not yet produced any witnesses. At this, the judge admonished the officer, saying, “If the complainant is not producing witnesses, are you his personal employee?”

The court adjourned the proceedings, warning the police to submit tangible progress at the next hearing.