Lahore Police probe alleged torture of family in manhole death case

The Internal Accountability Branch (IAB) of Lahore Police has initiated an inquiry into allegations of torture against the husband and relatives of Sadia, a woman who died after falling into an uncovered manhole. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed authorities to complete the investigation at the earliest.

The probe will examine the circumstances under which Sadia’s husband and relatives were detained, allegations of torture, the legality of obtaining signatures from the complainant, and whether police actions during and after the rescue operation were justified. It will also review the rationale for detentions following an emergency rescue call.

The incident occurred on Wednesday evening near Data Darbar, where 24-year-old Sadia and her 10-month-old daughter, Rida, fell into a sewer line. Rescue 1122 teams recovered Sadia’s body nearly six hours after the incident, while the infant’s body was retrieved after 16 hours following an extensive search operation.

Also Read: CM Maryam orders arrests over mother, infant daughter's deaths in Lahore manhole

In a video statement, members of the bereaved family alleged that police officials forcibly obtained signatures and thumb impressions from Sadia’s father, the complainant, on blank papers. The family claimed these signatures were taken under pressure to protect departments accused of negligence for leaving the sewer uncovered. “These signatures were taken forcibly to provide relief to the accused officials,” they said.

Sadia’s husband also accused police of physical torture after he and his cousins were taken into custody for questioning. He alleged that they were beaten and pressured during detention, raising serious concerns over police conduct. Earlier, unverified social media reports suggested that police were attempting to force a confession from him.

Police officials confirmed that Sadia’s husband and two relatives were detained after Sadia’s father raised suspicions that his son-in-law may have been involved in the deaths. The authorities maintained that the detentions were part of an investigation initiated due to conflicting statements and suspicions surrounding the incident.

Following the allegations of misconduct, DIG Operations Lahore ordered immediate action. Bhatti Gate SHO Zain Abbas was suspended and the concerned DSP was issued a show-cause notice. Officials assured that strict action would be taken against any officers found guilty of misconduct, abuse of authority, or negligence.