Custodial crime cases transferred to FIA

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has ordered the transfer of all cases of custodial torture, deaths, and rape to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

In a 17-page order issued by LHC Justice Ali Zia Bajwa on a petition filed by Suraiya Bibi, the court also ordered the immediate enforcement of the Custodial Death and Torture Prevention Act, 2022.

The order stated that the FIA has exclusive jurisdiction over investigations related to this act. It instructed the police to avoid involvement in these matters. According to the order, any form of torture to obtain confessions or evidence from an accused is strictly prohibited.

“The issue of enforcing the Custodial Death and Torture Prevention Act, 2022, should be formally brought to the attention of the Punjab chief minister.

“This matter should also be presented to the Federal Minister for the Interior through the Federal Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan. Ensure swift and complete implementation of the 2022 Act to prevent further delays in enforcement,” the decision stated.

The court also directed its office to send a copy of the decision to the chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and the FIA director-general. “Complaints of torture, death, or rape in police custody should be immediately referred to the FIA,” it added.