Police snap check row takes new turn

Accused granted bail as inquiry launched against police sub inspector over viral altercation video

KARACHI:

The case involving an altercation between a police sub-inspector (SI) and a young man during snap checking in the upscale Defence area of the metropolis has taken a new turn, with the accused being released on bail while a departmental inquiry has been initiated against the police officer, Shehzan Shakeel.

The young man seen arguing with police officials in a viral video has been released after being granted bail by the judicial magistrate for District South against surety bonds of Rs50,000.

The accused, identified as Khabeeb, son of a female police officer, was earlier arrested on charges including interference in official duties and alleged misbehaviour with a uniformed cop, SI Shehzan Shakeel. He appeared before the court along with his legal team comprising Asama Ali Gujar, Faisal Sheikh, and Waheed Sheikh Advocates.

During the hearing, defence counsel Asama Ali Gujar argued that the case was based on a false and fabricated story. He argued that the incident was the result of a misunderstanding and that the accused neither resisted police nor misbehaved.

He further stated that after the incident, the accused accompanied his parents to the police station, where a police officer reportedly admitted to an error, after which the matter was resolved through mutual understanding. He also questioned the timing of the FIR, stating that it was lodged nine hours after the incident, raising concerns over its authenticity. He added that all charges in the case are bailable and the accused is willing to fully cooperate with the investigation.

According to police, however, the accused had an altercation with police personnel during snap checking and allegedly misbehaved with officials while interfering in official duty. A case was registered against him at Defence police station.

Meanwhile, senior authorities have initiated a departmental inquiry into the conduct of SI Shehzan Shakeel, with SP Clifton Khalid Javed appointed as inquiry officer. He has been tasked to examine the viral video of the altercation, review all available records, determine responsibility, and submit a report within three days.

Initial reports suggest that orders for suspension of SI Shehzan Shakeel were issued earlier but were later withdrawn, indicating internal pressure and differing positions within the police hierarchy.

Officials said that both sides have issued video statements blaming each other for the incident.