A Senate sub-committee on Monday called for a comprehensive inquiry into the exceptional security arrangements reportedly granted to high-profile narcotics suspect Anmol, also known as “Pinky,” noting that her protection resembled that typically reserved for the prime minister.
Chaired by Senator Saifullah Abro, the sub-committee of the Senate Standing Committee on Interior criticized law enforcement agencies for their handling of Pinky, who is central to one of Karachi’s most prominent criminal cases. Senator Abro remarked that approximately 20 police vehicles accompanied the suspect, a level of protocol surpassing even that accorded to the prime minister or members of Parliament.
The committee demanded a detailed investigation into whether Pinky enjoyed political or bureaucratic support, questioning why such an accused criminal was provided with unprecedented state security. Senator Abro also mentioned that the chairperson of the provincial assembly’s standing committee had convened a meeting where police stated Pinky was arrested in Lahore, a claim disputed by Karachi Police DIG South Syed Ali Raza, who confirmed her arrest took place in Karachi.
The committee requested further information about the security measures extended to Pinky and emphasized the necessity of a deeper probe into the matter.
The controversy ignited after Pinky’s arrest on May 13 during a joint operation by police and a civilian intelligence agency at her apartment in Karachi’s Garden area. Following her arrest, she was presented before a judicial magistrate on charges related to narcotics and possession of unlicensed weapons. However, a video showing her walking through the court corridor without handcuffs, wearing sunglasses, and casually holding a water bottle went viral on social media and national television, sparking public outrage. The footage also showed her investigating officer trailing behind, seemingly guiding her.
In response to the backlash, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar ordered immediate disciplinary action, resulting in the suspension of three officers, including the investigating officer, the Garden Station House Officer (SHO), and the Investigation Officer (IO).
An internal police inquiry led by Deputy Inspector General (DIG) West Irfan Baloch uncovered significant institutional failures and deliberate obstruction attempts. Statements from 17 police officials, including City Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ali Hassan and the SP Investigation City, held the district SSP, Garden SHO, and SIO accountable for the lapses. Notably, CCTV footage documenting Pinky’s arrival and transfer to court was missing from the Garden police station.
The inquiry concluded that the special protocol severely tarnished the police force’s reputation and recommended separate legal and departmental action against Garden SHO Hanif Siyal. It also highlighted that the two female officers assigned to escort Pinky lacked training for high-profile cases and were uninformed about her background. Additionally, the operations police branch failed to complete her criminal record office (CRO) processing after arrest, transferring her case without properly notifying the investigation wing.
Meanwhile, the investigation has expanded beyond police negligence to include possible collusion within elite counter-terrorism units. Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has launched a separate inquiry into two personnel from its Civil Lines unit, Assistant Sub-Inspector Kafeel and Constable Ali Qureshi, who are suspected of maintaining regular contact with Pinky.
Investigators have revealed that Pinky faces at least 18 separate cases across various police jurisdictions. Efforts are underway to map a broader narcotics distribution network operating in Karachi, focusing on supply chains, financial connections, and undisclosed associates.
Pinky remains in judicial custody at Central Jail Karachi. Her earlier court appearances were marked by disruptions and allegations of torture and coercion while in custody, claims strongly denied by police investigators.
In a related statement, Sindh Police Inspector General Javed Odho emphasized that Pinky primarily resides in Lahore and urged the public and media not to glamorize her, warning against turning accused drug traffickers into celebrities.
