Supreme Court Hears Appeal in Notorious Chotu Gang Case

Islamabad – The Supreme Court of Pakistan heard appeals on Tuesday, February 18, 2026, filed by convicted members of the Chotu Gang, including its leader, Ghulam Rasool, against their sentences. The appeals challenge the confirmation of their death sentences by the Lahore High Court (LHC) in September 2024.

Background of the Case

The Chotu Gang, operating in the riverine “Katcha” area of Rajanpur, was infamous for kidnapping for ransom, extortion, dacoities, and murder. The gang members were convicted of killing six police officials and taking several others hostage during an operation launched on April 13, 2016. Dawn reports that the initial capital punishment was handed down by Anti-Terrorism Court-I, Multan.

Supreme Court Proceedings

A two-member bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Justice Malik Shehzad Ahmad Khan and comprising Justice Aqeel Ahmad Abbasi, initially heard the case. However, Justice Malik Shehzad Ahmad Khan noted that a two-member bench is not authorized to hear cases involving the death penalty. The Nation reported that Prosecutor Rao Akhtar Hussain confirmed the case pertained to the Chotu Gang.

Justice Ahmad Khan remarked on the gang’s past notoriety in Punjab, adding that the Counter Crime Division (CCD) had since eliminated the group. He similarly mentioned that a lawyer, Imran, who had been representing the accused, was previously taken away.

Counsel for the accused, Sardar Usman, stated he was representing the Chotu Gang members and assured the court of his safety. He requested a hearing date of Tuesday, February 25, 2026, to which Justice Ahmad Khan playfully inquired if the request was based on “Istikhara” (a practice of seeking guidance through prayer). Usman responded that any date would be acceptable.

Adjournment and Future Hearings

The Supreme Court adjourned the hearing until April 7, 2026, due to the unavailability of the third member of the bench, Justice Shakeel Ahmad. Daily Times confirms the adjournment date.

About the Chotu Gang

The Chotu Gang, led by Ghulam Rasool, engaged in various criminal activities, including kidnapping, murder, smuggling, and highway robberies. The gang operated from the Kacha area of Rajanpur and was known to procure weapons from Afghanistan, including light and heavy machine guns and even an anti-aircraft gun. Wikipedia details the gang’s history and activities.

In April 2016, the Pakistan Army launched “Operation Zarb-e-Ahan” against the Chotu Gang, resulting in the surrender of the gang and the release of previously kidnapped police officers.