ASI under probe as alleged sexual assault case takes new turn

By Adnan Bhatti

LAHORE -- A significant development has emerged in the case involving the alleged sexual assault of a mentally disabled woman by a police assistant sub-inspector (ASI) at Lahore’s Ghaziabad police station, as the scope of the investigation has been widened. It has emerged that ASI Imran, who is now under investigation in the case, had previously used his influence to secure the woman’s release from the police station in a begging case.

According to details, the investigation into the alleged sexual exploitation of the woman at Ghaziabad police station is under way. The DSP Investigation and Gender Cell team questioned ASI Imran and the affected woman for around two hours.

Preliminary investigations have established that the woman was present at the police station. According to investigators, she remained there for approximately 30 to 35 minutes. However, no evidence has so far been found to establish that she remained at the station for several hours.

Investigators said the woman had been arrested some time ago in a begging case, in which ASI Imran had intervened and secured her release from the police station.

During questioning, ASI Imran denied assaulting the woman. However, he reportedly gave investigators different accounts when asked why he had brought her to the police station.

Police have also conducted various tests on ASI Imran. According to police officials, the forensic report will determine the relevant evidence and other facts concerning the alleged assault.