Lahore cops release drug supplier after taking Rs1.7 million bribe

At least two house station officers (SHO) and a constable of Lahore city police were found to be involved in releasing drug peddlers after taking bribes of millions of rupees, according to the police. 

The matter came to light when Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Faisal Kamran received a complaint of bribery from residents of the police station's jurisdiction against Defence SHO Mian Sajjad, Faisal Town SHO Sulaiman Akbar, and Constable Shakir.

The probe of the three cops revealed that SHO Mian Sajjad received at least Rs1.7 million in exchange for releasing a culprit apprehended for drug peddling."

Following the investigation, SHO Sajjad was booked under section 155-C and arrested for further action.

Read: Kasur police book dead man for stealing electricity

Another investigation against Faisal Town SHO Sulaiman and his constable Shakir resulted in the suspension of both cops, as they were found to be involved in the same ill practices. However, the police could not arrest them so far. 

Both officers were suspended for their involvement in these ill practices.

DIG Kamran said the policemen were suspended from services and cases were also registered against them in police stations where they were serving. 

While chairing a review meeting on Friday, CCPO Bilal Siddique Kamyana spoke of an 'increased force' strategy for Lahore's drug trafficking and street crimes, as well as the recently dangerous kite flying activities across the city.

Read: Karachi police to book wedding hall management for celebratory gunfire

Responding to the worrying rise in street crimes, the CCPO ordered the SSP (Operations) to mount operations against the organised begging syndicates and to also make them vigilant in sensitive areas. 

The Investigation Wing was directed to improve communication with the Public Prosecution Department so that pending court cases (challans) can be expedited and the legal bottlenecks can be removed.