Imran Khan Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Illegally Selling State Gifts

A Pakistani court on Saturday sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan to 3 years in prison for illegally selling state gifts.

Local media said: "Judge Humayun Dilawar announced that involvement in corrupt practices has been proven. Khan was not present in court and the judge issued a warrant for his arrest."

Reuters reported that the Pakistani police arrested Khan after the verdict was issued, while he was in his home in Lahore.

The Pakistani police issued a statement today confirming that Khan will be transferred to Islamabad after his arrest in Lahore.

Legal experts said a conviction in the case could kill Khan's chances of participating in national elections, which must be held before early November.

Last Wednesday, the Supreme Court of Pakistan rejected the petition of former Prime Minister Imran Khan to stop his trial on charges of illegally selling gifts he received while prime minister, due to concerns about the objectivity of the trial and the bias of the judge.

The Supreme Court asked Khan to return to the Islamabad High Court to obtain a ruling on his objections, according to an order issued by the court.

Barrister Gauhar Khan, the former prime minister's lawyer, said Khan's legal team approached the Supreme Court of Pakistan this month, after the Islamabad High Court rejected his petition.

Meantime, Khan called for supporters to protest and 'stand up for their rights' as he is jailed for three years for illegally selling state gifts.