Federal Information Minister Ataullah Tarar has taken a swipe at former prime minister Imran Khan over his demand for an open trial of ex-spymaster Faiz Hameed.

“The PTI founder's demand for an open trial of Faiz Hameed is interference in army affairs,” the information minister said, stressing that Imran Khan was constantly trying to make this issue controversial.

He added: “Sometimes the PTI founder calls Faiz Hameed an asset … sometimes a hero and sometimes a zero.

“Such statements suggest that he is mentally disturbed. Such statements prove that he is suffering from deep anxiety.”

The minister said the PTI founder should defend the 190m pound case instead of passing remarks about the matter.

Imran Khan demanded an open trial for Faiz Hammed, stressing: “My issue with him is not an internal matter of the army.”

Last week, the ISPR announced Faiz Hameed’s arrest for allegedly violating the Army Act. Later the ISPR revealed that three other retired officers were also in military custody for their actions prejudicial to military discipline. Minister Attaullah Tarar hinted at more arrests in connection with Faiz Hameed court-martial.