Alleged thief attempts ‘suicide’ in courtroom

A man accused of theft allegedly attempted suicide during his court appearance. Police and bystanders extinguished the fire and a rescue team provided medical aid on scene. Kotwali police have registered a case against the accused under the provisions of attempted suicide, while the CPO took notice of the incident and ordered an inquiry.

According to the details, Qasim, a resident of Dr Chowk D Type Colony, was arrested by Samanabad Police in Case 2384/23. As police produced him before the court of District Magistrate Mazhar Haral, the accused’s mother brought him food and a bottle of petrol in front of the prosecution branch.

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After eating the food, Qasim allegedly doused himself with the bottle of petrol and set himself on fire with a lighter. Constable Waleed, who was present at the spot, threw a blanket over him and snuffed out the fire.

Qasim sustained slight burns and rescue teams reached provided medical aid. Qasim stated that was tortured by Samanabad police while in custody, due to which he tried to end his life.

While taking notice of the incident, City Police Officer Captain (retd) Mohammad Ali Zia ordered SSP Operations Dr Rizwan Khan to inquire into the matter and submit a report.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 21^st, 2023.