IG draws SHC flak for non-compliance with SOP in rape cases

The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Wednesday ordered the head of provincial police force to explain why the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is not implemented in dealing with rape cases. The court also ordered actions against the SSP Investigation, DSP, and sub inspector responsible for the oversight.

It was revealed during the proceedings that the Special Sexual Offences Investigation Unit (SSOIU), established by the IG Sindh Police to handle rape cases, was not effectively operational. The court expressed serious concerns over this lapse and directed the IG to either submit a detailed report or appear in person to explain the situation.

The SSOIU, established to investigate rape cases, comprises a DSP, a sub inspector, and a lady sub inspector. However, in a recent rape case that took place within the jurisdiction of Supermarket police station, only the lady inspector was involved in investigation, while the other members of the unit were absent.

The SHC ordered the implementation of SOPs in rape investigations, observing that the SSP Investigation is tasked with supervising and ensuring compliance with these procedures to avoid any procedural lapses. Meanwhile, another SHC bench took up for hearing a petition highlighting the issue of sewage and rainwater accumulation in PECHS, Block 6. The petitioner's counsel argued that water and sewage frequently swamp the roads of the area stretching from Mazar-e-Quaid to residential properties.