Viral Message About Gen (R) Faiz Hameed Declared Fake as ISPR Remains Silent

A flurry of rumours swept through social media on Monday after a message claiming that General (Retired) Faiz Hameed had been handed a harsh court martial sentence went viral. However, a detailed review by independent investigators has confirmed that the message is entirely fake and deliberately misleading.

The viral WhatsApp post alleged that the former DG ISI had been sentenced to life imprisonment with hard labour, had all his assets seized, and had been stripped of his pension and official privileges. The message went even further, claiming that his entire family had been placed on the Exit Control List, with his brother’s immediate arrest ordered and all bank accounts frozen forever.

These dramatic claims, though widely shared, collapsed under scrutiny. A fact checking platform, Azad Fact Check, dismissed the circulating message as false, fabricated, and devoid of evidence, noting that no official announcement about any punishment has been made regarding Gen (R) Faiz Hameed so far.

Crucially, ISPR responsible for all official military statements has issued neither confirmation nor denial on the matter. The absence of a formal statement suggests that the viral claims were little more than digital noise dressed as breaking news.

Journalist Zahid Gishkori, who has been following the case closely, said that the trial of Gen (R) Faiz Hameed began on 12 August 2024 and concluded 457 days later. In a recent interview, he remarked. As per my information, he may face punishment and it is possible that he may no longer be addressed as ‘General.’

Earlier, ISPR confirmed that a Field General Court Martial had been initiated against him on charges including, involvement in political activities, breach of the Official Secrets Act, actions harmful to state interests, misuse of authority and public resources, and causing unlawful harm to individuals.

Investigators also examined his alleged role in contributing to violent events, including the 9 May 2024 unrest, and whether political actors attempted to influence him. ISPR stressed that Gen (R) Faiz Hameed was granted all legal rights and due process during the proceedings.

The retired general was taken into custody in August following a Supreme Court–directed inquiry into a land-grab and corruption complaint linked to a raid on a private housing society. Three other retired officers were also detained in the same case.

For now, the truth remains behind official doors, while the viral message stands exposed as yet another reminder of how swiftly rumour can outrun reality in the digital age.