Security lapse prompts suspension of 23 cops

Probe into suspect's murder outside ATC in Rawalpindi continues

RAWALPINDI:

Following the murder of an accused outside an Anti-terrorism Court in Rawalpindi a couple of days ago, the Rawalpindi police have suspended around 23 police officers and personnel assigned to security duty in the area.

The incident that also injured a person poked holes in the foolproof security arrangement claims of the police.

According to sources, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations Kashif Zulfiqar has taken strict action against the major security lapse.

A charge sheet has also been issued against the security lapse.

Sources said DSP Admin has been appointed as the inquiry officer and the suspended personnel have been summoned for investigation.

The incident occurred on Wednesday morning in Rawalpindi's highly secured Red Zone, which houses key offices, including the Anti-Terrorism Court, the commissioner's office, the deputy commissioner's office, the SP Saddar office, the Safe City Complex, the old district courts, the district council, and the Punjab Forensic Science Agency.

SSP Zulfiqar inspected the crime scene and suspended 23 officers and personnel, including one inspector, one sub-inspector, three assistant sub-inspectors, and 15 constables.

These officers were responsible for security at the Anti-Terrorism Court, the old district courts, the Commissioner's and deputy commissioner's offices, and nearby areas.

DSP Admin, designated as the inquiry officer, has initiated proceedings and summoned all suspended personnel, including Inspector Fazal Ahmed and Sub-Inspector Munir Ahmed, for questioning.

Notices have also been issued to the in-charge officers of security at the Anti-Terrorism Court, the deputy commissioner and commissioner offices, the old district courts, and the Safe City Complex.

The notices mandate the attendance of all summoned personnel in the inquiry, warning of strict departmental action against those who fail to comply.

The incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of high-profile individuals, particularly those involved in sensitive cases.

The area frequently witnesses the movement of such personalities, including individuals connected to the May 9 riots.

At the time of the incident, hearings for the May 9 tragedy and the GHQ attack case were being held in Adiala Jail instead of the court, leading to reduced crowding in the vicinity.