CJ calls for securing crime scene

Says useful evidence is lost or destroyed before trial leading to acquittal of criminals

ISLAMABAD:

The apex court has said useful evidence is lost or destroyed before trial when police do not properly protect and secure a crime scene and resultantly culprits get away with their crimes due to the submission of unacceptable evidence by the prosecution.

“There are shortcomings in the police investigation. These shortcomings work in the favour of criminals,” Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial said on Thursday while leading a three-member bench. The bench was hearing petitions seeking cancellation of the Police Order, 2002.

The chief justice said a meeting of the National Judicial (Policy Making) Committee (NJPMC) was held recently in which all provincial police chiefs and prosecutors took part.

He said Sindh has established a separate special investigation wing, which is a commendable initiative. “The police system has also been improved in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but Punjab and Islamabad police have not yet taken such steps to improve investigation. The police of these two areas lag behind.”

Lawyer Farooq H Naek told the court that the Sindh Assembly has been dissolved and the caretaker government should be given time to take instructions. The court adjourned the hearing of the case till after the court holidays.

On August 12, the NJPMC reviewed the performance of justice sector institutions and judiciary.

It also reviewed institution, disposal and pendency of cases; factors hindering the efficient administration of criminal justice system particularly issues relating to submission of challans, conviction and acquittals; statistics of under trial prisoners, issues of jail inmates and pending appeals.