Departmental inquiry finds SHO guilty of crime patronage

SHO Baldia Faisal Rafiq allegedly involved in illicit trade of gutka and drugs

KARACHI:

The recent revelation about policemen's involvement in crimes and patronage of crimes has triggered in-house scrutiny within the force in Sindh. Following the arrest of Rao Rafiq, SHO Zaman Town police station, in connection with a robbery case, investigations have been concluded against Faisal Rafiq, SHO Baldia Town police station, for his alleged involvement in the illicit trade of gutka and drugs.

Police sources have confirmed the completion of an investigation into SHO Faisal's purported support of drug dealers and gutka vendors in Keamari district. A huge quantity of gutka was reportedly recovered among the seized assets. There have been allegations that SHO Faisal raided a gutka factory, seized a huge amount of the product, and subsequently sold more than 50 sacks to a gutka trader in exchange for a bribe.

Based on the allegations, DIG South Zone Asad Raza ordered an inquiry into the conduct of SHO Faisal, with SP SITE Atif Amir overseeing the investigation. According to police sources, SP Atif has concluded the investigation, holding SHO Faisal accountable for the illegal gutka trade. Moreover, evidence has emerged suggesting the operation of a clandestine group, involving people within the Baldia police station's jurisdiction, allegedly engaged in criminal activities under SHO Faisal's patronage.

Several cops stationed at the Baldia police station have provided statements indicating the existence of a special group associated with SHO Faisal, purportedly involved in robberies at various locations. These people allegedly collude with criminals, with the tacit support of the SHO. Moreover, it has been alleged that an illicit enterprise involving narcotics, gutka, and mawa operates under the protection of police.

SHO Faisal has also been accused of involvement in the theft of parrots valued at hundreds of thousands of rupees during a raid on a counterfeit oil factory. The investigation into this matter has been assigned to the SP Clifton, who, upon inquiry, found the SHO innocent.