CRIME

Rescue 1122 Officer Arrested Over Rape Allegations in Punjab

A Rescue 1122 officer in Mandi Bahauddin has been arrested over rape allegations spanning three years. An inquiry is underway as the suspect faces suspension and legal action.
2025-01-25
Rescue 1122 Officer Arrested Over Rape Allegations in Punjab

A Rescue 1122 officer was arrested on Saturday in Punjab’s Mandi Bahauddin district following a rape allegation made by a woman. The incident has raised serious concerns about abuse of authority within public services.

District Emergency Officer Imran Khan confirmed the arrest in a video statement, revealing that the suspect, a rescue and safety officer (RSO), had been suspended pending an inquiry. Khan assured the public that Rescue 1122 was fully cooperating with law enforcement agencies to ensure a transparent investigation.

Details of the Allegation
A first information report (FIR) was registered against the suspect at Malakwal police station under Section 376 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which pertains to rape.

According to the FIR, the complainant alleged that the suspect had been assaulting her for three years. The accused also allegedly blackmailed the woman, offering her employment in exchange for four tolas of gold.

Internal Inquiry Underway
A suspension order dated January 17, a copy of which is available, revealed that an inquiry committee had been formed to investigate the allegations. The committee will probe claims of harassment, intimidation, and bribery linked to employment offers.

The suspension order directed the suspect to provide a written defence to the inquiry committee within seven days, warning that failure to respond would be interpreted as acceptance of the charges.

Broader Context
This case comes on the heels of another disturbing incident last week in Punjab’s Gujrat district, where a suspect was arrested in connection with the rape and murder of a four-year-old girl.

Earlier this month, Punjab police launched new units dedicated to investigating sexual crimes under the Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act. These units aim to address longstanding issues of flawed investigations into rape and other sexual crimes, ensuring that victims receive justice.

Call for Justice and Accountability
The allegations against the Rescue 1122 officer highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms to prevent abuse of power within public institutions. Civil society groups have urged authorities to ensure a fair investigation while holding perpetrators accountable under the law.

The case underscores the importance of establishing a safe environment for victims to report crimes and trust in the justice system.