Cop killed in Cholistan Jeep Rally accident

ASI dies after being hit on track; racers protest registration of case

BAHAWALPUR:

A police officer was killed after being struck by a vehicle during the Cholistan Jeep Rally on February 13, prompting the registration of a case against a prominent racer and sparking protests by fellow participants.

According to officials, the incident occurred near Jam Garh during the first round of the race when a vehicle driven by Faisal Shadi Khel, winner of the opening round, collided with Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Bashir Joiya, who was present on the racing track.

The officer died at the scene.

Police subsequently registered a case against Faisal Shadi Khel. However, several racers staged a strong protest, maintaining that the police official was standing in the middle of the track at the time of the collision.

They argued that under race regulations, drivers are permitted to maneuver their vehicles up to 50 metres on either side of the designated track, and it is the administration's responsibility to ensure that the surrounding area remains clear of personnel and spectators.

Following the protest, Bahawalpur Commissioner Musarrat Jabeen held a meeting with the protesting racers.

It was decided that Faisal Shadi Khel would not be arrested and would instead seek interim bail.

Later that night, a petition was filed before the duty judge in Fort Abbas, who granted interim bail to the racer until February 21.

Faisal Shadi Khel hails from Mianwali and is the son of Obaidullah Niazi, a politician who has contested elections against Imran Khan.

Meanwhile, the funeral prayers of the deceased officer were offered with senior police officials in attendance, including Ghazi Salahuddin, Regional Police Officer (RPO) Bahawalpur.

Speaking on the occasion, the RPO said that in accordance with Punjab government policy, full support would be extended to the martyr's family. The late ASI is survived by three sons, all of whom reside in Dubai.