The Dark Side of Pakistan’s Police
Asem Mustafa Awan
Islamabad: In Pakistan, the police force, particularly in Punjab, has long been synonymous with corruption, brutality, and a blatant disregard for the rights of the citizens they are sworn to protect. This pervasive misconduct has eroded public trust and fostered a culture of fear and resentment among the populace.
A glaring example of this abuse of power occurred during a VIP movement in Multan. An official, stationed at the New Multan police station, was caught on camera physically assaulting an elderly man who unknowingly crossed a VIP route designated for a cricket team.
The footage, which quickly went viral, showed the officer thrashing the man off his moving motorcycle. The video sparked public outrage, resulting in suspension of the officer. However, such suspensions are often temporary, serving as mere damage control while systemic abuse remains unchecked.
VIP movements in Pakistan have long been a source of suffering for ordinary citizens. Roads are blocked without prior notice, ambulances are halted, and countless lives have been lost due to the elite’s unchecked privileges.
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Women have given birth on roadsides, and patients have died waiting for blocked routes to clear. The so-called land of the pure, with its 240 million inhabitants, grants more rights to VIPs than to its common people, who are treated as mere obstacles in the way of the privileged few.
In another disturbing incident, a low-ranking police officer stormed into a mosque, threatening worshippers that if their children were caught kite flying, they would be beaten in the middle of the road, and their homes would be bulldozed.
His threats in the past even extended to a war hero Air Commodore Sajjad Haider, who fought in the 1965 war against India. That a police officer can make such statements with impunity highlights the unchecked power and audacity of the force, which often acts as a law unto itself.
These incidents are not isolated. They are symptomatic of a deeply entrenched system of corruption and abuse within the Pakistani police force. Officers frequently exploit their authority for personal gain, engage in extrajudicial actions, and operate with impunity.
The public’s perception of the police has shifted from protectors to oppressors, leading to widespread distrust and fear.
The case of Inspector Saifullah Niazi serves as a stark illustration of the consequences of unchecked police misconduct. Known for his abusive behavior and corruption, Niazi met a violent end at the hands of his subordinate, Adeel.
Years of mistreatment culminated in Adeel emptying an entire magazine into Niazi, an act that many in the public viewed as a form of karmic justice. This incident underscores the volatile environment within the police force, where internal grievances fester due to a lack of accountability and oversight.
Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies are ranked among the lowest in the world, with frequent reports of human rights violations, extrajudicial killings, and custodial torture. Punjab police, in particular, have gained a notorious reputation for their brutal tactics.
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The force has a history of fabricating cases, torturing detainees, and using excessive force on civilians without any fear of repercussions. Complaints against them often go unheard as there is no robust mechanism to hold them accountable.
What makes matters worse is the culture of political patronage and nepotism that shields corrupt officers from facing justice.
Those who have connections with high-ranking officials or political figures are often untouchable, no matter how severe their crimes. This impunity emboldens them to act without restraint, knowing they are unlikely to be held responsible for their actions.
Public sentiment towards the police has reached a boiling point. Cases like these, where officers abuse their authority with impunity, have resulted in widespread frustration.
The brutal killing of Inspector Niazi was seen by many as a reflection of the people’s growing intolerance towards corrupt officials. It was not just an act of personal revenge but a symbol of a failing system where citizens are left with no choice but to take matters into their own hands.
The need for police reforms in Pakistan is more urgent than ever. There must be stringent laws in place to ensure accountability and transparency in law enforcement.
An independent body should be established to investigate complaints against police officers, free from political interference. Additionally, officers must undergo psychological evaluations and rigorous training to instill values of integrity and service to the public.
Furthermore, the public must be empowered to report police misconduct without fear of retaliation. The government should introduce a digital complaints system where citizens can submit grievances and track their progress in real-time.
Strengthening internal oversight mechanisms within the police force itself can also help weed out bad elements and promote a culture of professionalism.
As the people of Pakistan become increasingly aware of their rights, the demand for a fair and just policing system will only grow louder. The government cannot afford to ignore the voices calling for change. The tragic incidents of police brutality and corruption must serve as a wake-up call for authorities to take decisive action.
The role of the police is to serve and protect, not to oppress and exploit. Without meaningful reform, the police force will continue to deteriorate, further widening the gap between law enforcement and the people they are meant to serve.
The time for change is now. Pakistan deserves a police system that upholds justice, respects human dignity, and works for the people rather than against them.
The article is the writer’s opinion, it may or may not adhere to the organization’s editorial policy.
Asem Mustafa Awan has extensive reporting experience with leading national and international media organizations. He has also contributed to reference books such as the Alpine Journal and the American Alpine Journal, among other international publications.
