Former Pakistani Spy Chief Arrested in Housing Scam Probe

In a rare move that has surprised many, Pakistan's military has announced the arrest of Faiz Hameed, the country's former spy chief. The retired army general, who once led the powerful Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), will face a court-martial over allegations related to a housing project scandal.

The military's statement revealed that Hameed's arrest followed an internal investigation ordered by Pakistan's Supreme Court. The probe centered on the Top City project, a private housing development near Islamabad. While specific charges were not disclosed, the military confirmed that "appropriate disciplinary action" has been initiated under army regulations.

This development is particularly noteworthy in a country where the military wields significant influence. Pakistan, which gained independence from British colonial rule in 1947, has been under military governance for over three decades of its 77-year history. The ISI, founded in 1948, is regarded as one of the world's most formidable intelligence agencies.

Hameed's tenure as ISI chief began in June 2019, during the administration of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. He was replaced in October 2021, while Khan was still in office. Following Khan's ousting in 2022, Hameed was granted early retirement.

The Supreme Court's call for an investigation came in response to allegations from Top City. The company claimed that Hameed was involved in land grabbing and corruption linked to the housing project. Moreover, they alleged that as ISI chief, he abused his authority by orchestrating raids on the home and offices of the project owner, Moeez Khan.

It's important to note that Pakistan's military budget constitutes around 4% of its GDP, one of the highest in the region. The country's armed forces, with over 500,000 active personnel, have been involved in several wars with neighboring India and became a nuclear power in 1998.

While Hameed's arrest appears unrelated to Imran Khan's current legal troubles, it underscores the complex relationship between Pakistan's civilian government and its military establishment. The country has experienced three successful military coups, and its constitution has been suspended three times by military rulers.

The Pakistani military owns significant business enterprises across various sectors, and the Chief of Army Staff is considered one of the most powerful positions in the country. However, both the military and intelligence agencies have faced criticism for alleged human rights violations and interference in domestic politics.

As the case against Faiz Hameed unfolds, it will be closely watched by many in Pakistan and beyond, potentially shedding light on the inner workings of one of the world's most influential military and intelligence apparatuses.