Maps
Magazine

LEGAL

Attock Jail Superintendent Removed After Torture Video Emerges
IG Prisons removes Attock Jail superintendent after viral video shows inmate torture. 5 officials, including 2 officers, suspended. Detainees abused in officers' presence.
ND
by News Desk
2025-06-20
Attock Jail Superintendent Removed After Torture Video Emerges

The Inspector General (IG) of Prisons Punjab has removed the Superintendent of Attock Jail, Arif Shahzad, from his post following a shocking video that surfaced showing brutal torture of detainees in the presence of prison officers.

The disturbing footage, which went viral two days ago, prompted swift administrative action. Superintendent Arif Shahzad has been ordered to report to Lahore, while five other jail officials, including two officers, have been suspended, confirmed a spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department.

The suspended officials are:

·       Deputy Superintendent Samad Hassan

·       Assistant Superintendent Mushtaq Ahmed

·       Chief Warder Muhammad Rafiq

·       Head Warder Muhammad Zulfiqar

·       Warder Muhammad Ayub

The footage reportedly showed inmates being violently beaten inside Attock Jail while officers looked on or participated in the abuse, sparking nationwide outrage and calls for prison reform.

A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department said the government is taking the matter seriously and that a thorough inquiry has been initiated to identify all those responsible for violating prisoner rights.

Human rights activists and civil society groups have condemned the incident, urging the government to implement stronger oversight mechanisms within Punjab’s prison system. They called for holding not only the lower-tier staff accountable but also those in command positions who fail to prevent such abuse.

The incident adds to a growing list of complaints regarding inhumane conditions and mistreatment in prisons across Pakistan. Legal experts emphasize that detainees, regardless of their charges, are entitled to humane treatment under both Pakistani law and international conventions.

Further action is expected following the inquiry report, as the Punjab government signals its intent to clean up the prison system and restore public trust.
Tagged:

#HumanRights

PunjabPrisons

AttockJail

PrisonAbuse
Share News: