An official inquiry has confirmed allegations of police torture against Ghulam Murtaza, the husband of a woman who died in the Bhati Gate manhole tragedy in Lahore.
The investigation was ordered by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and conducted by the Internal Accountability Branch. Additional IG Imran Mahmood, DIG Nasir Aziz Virk, and DIG Imran Kishwar led the probe.
The report found City SP Bilal and Bhati Gate SHO Zain Abbas guilty of torturing Murtaza. Both officers admitted to the abuse during the inquiry. Police took Murtaza from the scene to Bhati Gate Police Station and repeatedly tortured him inside the SHO’s room. Video evidence from a camera inside the room confirmed the allegations.
Murtaza was held in illegal detention for over five hours. During this time, police pressured him to confess to killing his wife and daughter. Investigators also recorded his statement in Shorkot, where he described the threats and coercion.
The inquiry concluded that the officers mishandled the incident, failing to question other relatives and ignoring standard operating procedures. Their actions were deemed unprofessional and a violation of basic investigation principles.
The accused officers claimed their actions were based on advice from rescue agencies, saying it was “impossible for a woman to drown.” The inquiry rejected this explanation and held the officers responsible for unlawful detention and torture.
The report recommends departmental action against both officers. SHO Zain Abbas has already been suspended. The findings have been submitted to the Punjab Inspector General of Police and will be forwarded to the Chief Minister for further action.
A high-level committee has also been formed to investigate how false and conflicting information about the tragedy reached the media. Officials from the police, rescue services, and other agencies will be questioned to determine responsibility.
In other related news also read Lahore manhole tragedy
The tragedy involved the deaths of a mother and daughter from Shorkot who fell into an open manhole near Bhati Gate. Authorities continue efforts to ensure accountability and transparency.
