Action against sluggish officers ordered

ISLAMABAD: Inspector General of Police (IGP) has directed the legal branch of police to compile a list of the investigation officers who have failed to complete investigation into cases entrusted to them.

The Express Tribune learnt that more than 300 cases of multiple nature were pending in different police stations since 2005. There were hundreds of cases which were 2-3 years old. “The investigation officers cite different constraints for delays in the completion of investigation such as unavailability of complainants and witnesses, engagement in other assignments and other similar problems. But most of the time, the investigation officer is not merely sluggish, they do it for their personal interests,” said a police official.

Legal Branch of Islamabad Police dispatched 3777 cases into the courts during the current year after completion of investigation. However, 338 cases were also submitted in various courts after objections were removed. More than 191 cases were cancelled this year due to lack of evidence.

The IGP reviewed the performance of the legal branch and directed SSP (Operations) to ensure the completion of cases. He also ordered strict action against those officials who create hurdles in giving relief to litigants.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 17^th, 2010.