Former Pakistani prime minister and cricketer Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been sentenced to 17 years in prison for illegally purchasing state gifts at a discounted price, charges that his supporters claim are politically-motivated.
The luxury watches and jewellery were presented to Khan by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during official visits while he was in office. Pakistani law requires officials to buy such gifts from the state at full market value and declare any proceeds from later sales.
Prosecutors said the couple paid far less than required, declaring the gifts at just over $10,000 despite an estimated market value of $285,500. Khan and his wife pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were indicted last year.
Authorities said they received 10 years for criminal breach of trust and an additional seven years under anti-corruption laws, as Khan’s sons expressed fears they may never see their father again.
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