A uniformed police officer in Lahore’s Manawan area was apprehended while sexually assaulting a female beggar. Upon being discovered, the officer fired his weapon, injuring a bystander named Sajid who was recording the incident. Local residents subdued the officer and handed him over to the authorities. Sajid was taken to a hospital for treatment. A video of the incident has surfaced online, showing the officer without his pants and shoes, standing over the woman. When confronted, he threw a shoe at Sajid before shooting him in the leg. The officer, identified as Amjad, is currently under investigation.
This incident underscores a pervasive issue within the Punjab Police force. There have been numerous reports of misconduct, including corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations. For instance, in November 2024, four Punjab Police officers were dismissed for taking bribes and misusing their authority.
Additionally, a 2010 report by the Anti-Corruption Establishment Punjab labeled the Punjab Police as the most corrupt public department in the province.
The prevalence of such incidents highlights the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the Punjab Police. It is imperative for higher authorities to dismantle the existing structure and implement a system that ensures accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights. Without such measures, public trust in law enforcement will continue to erode, and the safety and dignity of citizens will remain at risk.
