An unsettling development has emerged as letters containing a suspicious white powder were sent to at least 17 top judges, triggering an urgent investigation by authorities. The alarming incident unfolded with all eight judges of the Islamabad High Court receiving similar mails on Tuesday, accompanied by a note criticizing the justice system of Pakistan. The note even referenced “bacillus anthracis,” prompting concerns due to its association with anthrax, a potentially fatal infection if left untreated.
The following day, four Supreme Court judges, including Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, and five judges of the Lahore High Court also received comparable letters containing the suspected “toxic” substance. Authorities revealed that a lesser-known group called Tehreek-e-Namoos Pakistan has claimed responsibility for the disturbing correspondence.
Law enforcement agencies in Islamabad and Lahore have swiftly launched investigations, sending the letters and their contents to forensic and security experts for analysis. However, the nature of the white powder has yet to be confirmed by authorities.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a police official involved in the investigation assured that updates would be provided promptly as progress is made. Tehreek-e-Namoos Pakistan first came into public attention last year after a suspicious bag was discovered at an upscale hiking trail in Islamabad, containing incriminating items and a letter criticizing the justice system and targeting judges and generals.
This latest incident comes amid heightened tensions following allegations of interference by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) in judicial matters, as raised by six judges of the Islamabad High Court in an open letter to the Supreme Court. The judges accused the ISI of resorting to intimidatory tactics, including surveillance and abduction, to influence judicial decisions in politically significant cases.
In response, the government formed a commission to investigate the matter, which faced initial setbacks when the appointed retired judge declined the responsibility. Subsequently, the Supreme Court established a seven-member bench to probe the allegations.
As the investigation unfolds, legal experts emphasize the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need for a thorough examination to determine the veracity of the threats posed to the judiciary. The chilling intimidation of judges underscores the critical importance of safeguarding judicial independence for the effective functioning of the justice system.
