Cops accused of snatching cash

Alleged incident sparks public outrage

ISLAMABAD:

Seven Islamabad police personnel are under scrutiny following allegations of snatching Rs50,000 from a citizen at a checkpoint near Golra.

The complaint was lodged by the citizen with Senior Superintendent Police (SSP) (Operations) Malik Jameel Zafar, accusing seven police officials of forcefully taking Rs50,000 while travelling within the limits of the Golra police station in Islamabad.

The incident has ignited public outrage and raised serious questions about police conduct. Muhammad Aslam, a resident of Mohallah Imambargah Rawalpindi, stated in his complaint that he was en route to deliver meat supplies when he encountered seven police officials at a routine checkpoint near Golra police station. Upon stopping his vehicle, the officers demanded to see his documents, which he promptly provided.

However, without apparent cause, the police officials proceeded to search his vehicle.

Tensions escalated when the officers allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs0.1 million for the release of both the goods and the vehicle. Aslam further alleged that Rs50,000 were forcefully taken from his pocket by the very officials tasked with upholding law and order.

Meanwhile, the police department said legal proceedings have been initiated and police authorities are launching an investigation into the matter. Speaking about the incident, Aslam emphasised the importance of ensuring accountability within law enforcement agencies and upholding citizens' rights to fair treatment, particularly in the federal capital.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 14^th, 2024.