An inquiry has been opened into the death of a suspect, Usman, who died while in police custody in Lahore. Authorities are also considering a judicial inquiry into the circumstances of his death.
A police spokesperson said the DIG Operations has asked a senior superintendent of police to investigate the incident and submit a report. According to the spokesperson, South Cantt police had detained Usman on suspicion of fraud after he allegedly hid his identity and posed as a government official.
Inquiry ordered into Usman’s death in custody
Police claimed Usman’s condition suddenly worsened while officers were completing the first information report. He was then taken to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology by Rescue 1122 for treatment.
According to police, doctors treated him for about 50 minutes, but he died after suffering cardiac arrest. The spokesperson said a post-mortem examination would be conducted to determine the cause of death.
The DIG Operations has also decided to refer the matter to a judicial inquiry, which police said is meant to ensure transparency.
Video surfaces as probe into Township women’s deaths continues
Earlier in August, two women, Anmol and Amna, died in police custody in Lahore’s Township area. Footage recorded shortly before their arrest has since emerged, showing them arguing with residents of B Block in Township.
According to reports, the residents were demanding the return of money they alleged had been taken in a robbery. The footage shows the women trying to leave the scene before police arrived.
Lahore Police said the mobile phone video has been incorporated into the inquiry into the incident.
