SI detained for ‘smuggling, robbery’

Arrested officer’s accomplice, himself netted one month ago, confessed to crime bids

OKARA:

Saddar Circle Police arrested a serving sub-inspector from Pakpatten over robbery cases on Wednesday.

DPO Mansoor Aman informed The Express Tribune that last month, B Division Police arrested a robber who revealed that Sub Inspector Ijaz Riaz, posted with Pakpattan Police, was allegedly involved in robberies with him. The DPO ordered a complete inquiry into the matter.

The report revealed that Sub-Inspector Ijaz Riaz and his accomplices allegedly smuggled goods in loaded vehicles by pretending to be customs officers. Two incidents were reported within the limits of Okara police station Saddar, while one bid in Gogira was also committed by the same gang. When the police arrested a suspect last month, his interrogation led to Sub Inspector Ijaz Riaz being arrested.

DPO Aman said all accused involved in the aforementioned crimes were clad in police uniforms and some goods were recovered from their possession. However, police are investigating the arrested sub-inspector and more facts will come to the fore during the investigation.

The DPO added that the police have been directed to punish the arrested sub-inspector to the fullest extent of the law.

Meanwhile, in the Thikriwala area, police arrested two suspects, including an ASI, who were allegedly carrying out crimes while wearing police uniforms. An investigation was launched after recovering weapons from their possession.

The arrested accused confessed to committing robbery bids within the limits of three police stations. The city police officer (CPO) suspended the ASI and appointed SP Iqbal Town as the inquiry officer.

According to the police report, ASI Shabbir Ahmed and Mujahid Ali were allegedly looting citizens while blocking Mullanpur bypass.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 14^th, 2023.