ALBAWABA - As tensions between India and Pakistan grow, a press release recently sparked debate on social media after claiming that Pakistan's former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, died in custody. The rumors erupted when a resurfaced video flooded platforms such as X (formerly known as Twitter) and WhatsApp, which revealed Khan being carried out by security with visible injuries.
Several fact-checking websites deemed the video fake and accused the press release of spreading unverified misinformation. Meanwhile, several social media users also spread false reports about Imran Khan escaping jail, adding to the confusion.
First Post claims that the press release was issued by someone impersonating Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Is Pakistan's former PM Imran Khan dead?
The letter stated, "It is with deep regret and solemnity that we confirm the passing of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in judicial custody. The incident occurred under circumstances that are currently under thorough investigation."
It added, "This development has sent shockwaves across the country and beyond, and the Government of Pakistan acknowledges the gravity of the situation. We are committed to ensuring complete transparency as we determine the causes and accountability behind this tragic event."
Fact-checking website, Boom Live, verified the fake news by contacting Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, which confirmed that the press release is false, and pointed out flaws in the document issued.
Additionally, the video that flooded social media is old and was first shared in May 2013, when Imran Khan was injured during an election rally in Lahore, after falling 15 feet from a forklift at a stage.
What's factual is that Imran Khan has been serving a 14-year sentence in Adiala Jail since 2023 on charges of corruption and his involvement in an illegal case with Al-Qadir Trust.
On May 9, Tehreek-e-Insaf filed a court petition for fear of the former Pakistani PM getting targeted by drones from India.
