Accused nuke black market head freed

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By Nasir Khan THE WASHINGTON TIMES

ISLAMABAD -- A Pakistani court on Friday lifted restrictions that had kept nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan under house arrest, freeing the man charged with running a black market that disseminated nuclear weapons know-how to rogue states including Libya and Iran.

Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court Sardar Muhammad Aslam announced the decision on a writ petition filed by Mr. Khan. The court order said that Mr. Khan is "a free citizen" and allowed him to move freely and speak to media for the first time since 2004.

The judge wrote that "Dr. Khan's plea is disposed of in accordance with" an annex whose contents were not made public.

The announcement is sure to create controversy and cause tensions in U.S.-Pakistan relations because of the activities of the Khan-led black market. The Obama administration had no immediate comment.

Pakistani government prosecutor Amjad Iqbal Qureshi told the Associated Press that "security measures" for Mr. Khan would remain in place, suggesting some restrictions on his movements would remain. Syed Ali Zafar, Mr. Khan's lawyer, earlier argued before the judge that the petitioner was not involved in any criminal activity, including nuclear proliferation, and that he should be declared a free citizen withstate protection.

Speaking to reporters at his residence after the court verdict, Mr. Khan said the court decision is matter between him and the government and has no connection with the United States.

"I am satisfied with the decision. Declaring me a free citizen is a matter between me and the government," he said. "I do not want to delve into the past. I want development of my country. I pray to God to save my country."

He said will not get involved in politics. "I will focus on education and setting up a welfare organisation will be my top priority."

Former President Pervez Musharraf, under intense pressure from the United States, put Mr. Khan under house arrest. Mr. Khan said he did not blame Gen. Musharraf, who was forced to step down last year. "God has already punished General Musharraf," Mr. Khan said. "He can not freely move and come on the roads today."