Shoaib Akhtar says, '5-year Punishment too harsh for my friend Salman Khan'

Former Pakistani bowler known for his pace attack, Shoaib Akhtar has expressed his grief over Salman Khan being sentenced to 5 years in jail. The Rawalpindi express is upset that his 'friend' Salman Khan has been awarded 5 years' punishment in case of Blackbuck poaching.

"Really sad to see my friend Salman Khan sentenced for five years, but the law must take its course and we got to respect the decision of the honourable court of India.

"But I still think punishment is too harsh, but my heart goes to his family and fans. I am sure he will be out soon," Akhtar tweeted.

Notably, Salman Khan has been sentenced in case of hunting blackbucks. The case pertains to the poaching of blackbucks back in the year 1998. The case has been going on since then. The prime accused included Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Tabu, Sonali Bendre and Neelam. Salman Khan has been awarded a 5-year imprisonment and all others have been released.

Salman is currently stationed in Jodhpur central jail.

Chief Judicial Magistrate Dev Kumar Khatri, while pronouncing the verdict in the case of killing the protected antelopes, termed the 52-year-old actor a "habitual offender" under the wildlife protection laws of the country.