Martyred cop’s window to follow husband’s footsteps

Police Martyrs’ Day is observed nationwide on August 4 to honour the brave law enforcers who have laid down their lives for the safety of our country, fighting terrorism and protecting public lives and property.

One such hero is Sub-Inspector Iqbal Muhammad Khan, who gave up his life in 2017 during a raid on Rashid Minhas Road in Karachi while fighting criminals. He left behind a grieving widow and two young children.

Despite the personal loss, his widow, Tahmina Iqbal, displayed remarkable courage and resilience. Not only did she persevere through the difficult times that followed her husband's martyrdom, but she also took on a role within his former department.

Today, Tahmina serves in the Women and Children Protection Cell of the Sindh Police Department, where she has successfully addressed cases involving rape, missing children, and harassment in the 42 police stations of District East.

At 29 years of age, Tahmina lives in the quarters of the New Town police station and commutes daily to the DIG East Zone Office. She regretted that despite around 2,000 to 3,000 female police officers serving in the department, policing is still not widely seen as a respectable profession for women.

“We have moved homes 14 times, selling belongings to make ends meet. Seventy per cent of people opposed my decision to continue in this job, but I am determined to carry on despite these challenges,” she told The Express Tribune.