Video footage depicting Pakistan Army personnel allegedly assaulting and beating up policemen in Bahawalnagar, Punjab, has sparked widespread outrage on social media. The incident, which occurred around 400 km from Lahore, has raised concerns about the treatment of law enforcement officials and the dynamics between different security forces in the region.
Multiple video clips circulating online show army officers reportedly torturing cops, forcing them to kneel on the ground and subjecting them to physical violence. In one clip, two policemen can be seen pleading for mercy as they endure brutal treatment at the hands of army personnel.
According to sources, the altercation stemmed from the alleged illegal detention of three civilians by Punjab police, who were reportedly demanding money for their release. The police also conducted a raid on the residence of an army officer to apprehend an alleged accomplice of the detained individuals, which further escalated tensions.
Following the incident, four policemen, including SHO Abbas Rizwan, were suspended and arrested for their involvement in the detention and extortion case. However, the video evidence showing army officers assaulting police has raised questions about the appropriate response to such inter-agency conflicts.
In response to the videos’ circulation, the Punjab police issued a statement clarifying that the incident had been taken out of context and exaggerated on social media. The statement emphasized that both the army and police were conducting a joint investigation to address the matter and restore peace.
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party leader Hammad Azhar called for the resignation of Punjab police chief Dr. Usman Anwar following the humiliating incident. The episode has highlighted broader issues of accountability, inter-agency coordination, and the need for transparency in law enforcement operations in Pakistan.
Sources By Agencies
