Pakistan: Spying attempt on Imran Khan foiled amid assassination rumors
Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, was the target of a spying operation that was thwarted when a housekeeper was seen attempting to install a spy gadget in Khan's bedroom, according to local media reports. Shehbaz Gill, the leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), claimed that the worker was paid to install the spy device, describing the act as heinous and regrettable.
Why does this story matter?
Khan has claimed that his life is at risk, particularly since he was deposed from power in April after losing a trust vote. He claimed last month during a speech in Sialkot that he had recorded a video mentioning all those involved in the conspiracy to murder him. He said the murder plot was being planted in closed quarters inside and outside Pakistan.
How did the spy attempt come to light?
The attempt was thwarted when a different employee observed the suspect attempting to install the device and immediately alerted the security team in Islamabad's Bani Gala area. The accused was apprehended by the security team and turned over to federal authorities. "Our people are being threatened to get information. Such shameful acts should be avoided," PTI leader Gill alleged.
Khan's life is at risk, arrested worker made revelations: PTI
This development coincides with rumors of an assassination plot against PTI chairman Khan. Numerous PTI members have claimed that Khan's life is at risk. Earlier, the city's security agencies were placed on high alert near the Bani Gala area due to the alleged threat. Gill also stated that the "arrested" worker had made multiple revelations that he couldn't disclose at the moment.
Several PTI leaders claimed Khan's life in danger
Similarly, Hassaan Niazi, Khan's nephew, also earlier stated that if "anything happens to our leader Imran Khan, it will be treated as an attack on Pakistan. The response will be aggressive—the handlers will also regret." Similar claims were made by PTI leader Faisal Vawda, who stated that a plot was being developed to assassinate Khan because he refused to "sell the country."
Khan isn't in any danger: Interior Minister earlier stated
However, earlier on Thursday (June 23), Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah dismissed Khan's claims of life threats. The minister stated that Khan was not in any danger during a conversation with the media. He also stated that Khan is being provided with the same level of security and protocol that he had while serving as Pakistan's prime minister.
What has Khan been doing recently and where is Bani Gala?
Politically, Khan has been attempting to corner the new government over the economic situation and inflation, both of which have recently worsened. Notably, Bani Gala is a residential area located in Islamabad, where currently no gathering or congregation is allowed amid Khan's assassination rumors.
