IHC orders inquiry against police officers over unlawful arrests

Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has taken a stand against unlawful arrests by law enforcement officers, emphasizing the importance of upholding legal principles and due process. The court ordered an inquiry into the conduct of officers responsible for arrests that went against established legal norms and granted interim bail to a former lawmaker facing charges.

In a written order issued by IHC Judge Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzeb, it was highlighted that the Islamabad police had failed to adhere to the legal principles outlined by the Lahore High Court. The judge expressed concern that arrests were being made without following the proper due process, despite earlier court admonitions.

“The interior secretary has been directed to conduct a thorough inquiry into the actions of officers involved in unlawful arrests that contravene the law,” the order stated. It further noted that these arrests persisted despite previous objections raised by the judiciary, indicating a disregard for legal standards.

The IHC’s ruling also included a significant decision to grant interim bail for seven days to Ali Wazir, a former member of the National Assembly and a prominent leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM). Wazir is currently facing two cases related to his alleged involvement in PTM rallies in Tarnol and Taxila, during which he is accused of delivering anti-state speeches.

The court’s ruling effectively bars the Islamabad police from arresting Ali Wazir or facilitating his arrest. Instead, Wazir has been ordered to appear before the relevant courts in Tarinol and Taxila no later than September 26 to address the charges against him.

To ensure the implementation of its decision, the IHC has forwarded a copy of the ruling to the interior ministry, the Islamabad police chief, and the director-general of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

This ruling by the Islamabad High Court serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and due process in law enforcement, setting a precedent for lawful conduct in the pursuit of justice.