The inquiry report of the high-powered committee formed to investigate the Bhati Gate tragedy in Lahore has been completed, with three police officers declared guilty of negligence, police sources confirmed.
The inquiry was conducted by a three-member high-powered committee constituted by the Punjab inspector general of police. The committee was headed by the additional inspector general of police.
DIG Ahmed Nasir Aziz Virk and DIG Imran Kishwar were also part of the committee formed to probe the incident.
According to police sources, committee members visited the scene of the incident at Bhati Gate in Lahore. Statements of witnesses and eyewitnesses were recorded during the investigation.
The committee also recorded statements from the family of the deceased woman, identified as Sadia, to understand the sequence of events.
Senior police officers found negligent
The inquiry report found negligence on the part of the SP City, the SDPO, and the SHO concerned. After reviewing the evidence and testimonies, the committee declared all three officers guilty of negligence.
Also Read: Lahore manhole tragedy: Infant's body found after 17 hours
Police sources said the findings were based on facts gathered from the site visit and witness statements.
Allegations of torture
The report also states that the deceased woman’s husband was tortured in the SHO’s retiring room. This incident allegedly took place in the presence of the SP City, according to police sources.
The inclusion of these details in the report has further strengthened the case against the officers found negligent.
Recommendations sent to IGP
Following completion of the inquiry, the committee forwarded its recommendations to the IGP. Police sources confirmed that the final decision regarding disciplinary action against the officers will be taken by the police chief.
Further action will be determined after reviewing the committee’s findings and recommendations.
