Imran Khan returned to prison hours after hospital transfer

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was returned to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi just hours after being taken to a hospital in Islamabad for medical tests.

Khan was taken to Shifa International Hospital around midnight on Thursday (August 20) following a directive from the country's Supreme Court.

He underwent medical examinations and was taken back to prison in the early hours of Friday.

Heavy security was deployed around Shifa International Hospital ahead of Khan's arrival. Large numbers of police and paramilitary personnel were stationed in the area, while several roads leading to the hospital were temporarily closed.

The Supreme Court had ordered authorities on Tuesday to arrange a medical examination and treatment for Khan. The order did not specify how long he should remain in hospital, prompting speculation that he could be kept there for several days. He was, however, returned to prison within hours.

Security was also tightened during his transfer back to Adiala Jail.

The Pakistani government had opposed Khan's transfer to hospital. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government appealed against the court's order, but the appeal was not accepted, paving the way for Khan's medical visit.

Khan, who lost power after a no-confidence vote in April 2022, was arrested in August 2023 in a case involving allegations that he concealed details of gifts received while serving as prime minister. Since then, he has faced multiple cases and prolonged legal proceedings.

He was later sentenced to 14 years in prison in the Al-Qadir Trust corruption case. His family and supporters have repeatedly raised concerns about his health during his prolonged detention and called for him to receive medical treatment outside prison.

His brief hospitalisation and swift return to prison have now renewed questions over his health and access to medical care.

Source: Reuters