KARACHI: SSP Central Zeeshan Shafiq Siddiqui met with a fruit seller who was harassed and assaulted by Karachi police officials on Shahrah-e-Noor Jahan. The meeting followed the circulation of a viral video showing four police officers mistreating the vendor near Qalandria Chowk.
The video showed the officers forcibly taking free melons from the cart, hurling abusive language, and issuing threats to the seller. The incident sparked widespread public condemnation. Upon learning of the situation, SSP Siddiqui took immediate action, suspending all four officers involved in the misconduct.
The SSP invited the street vendor to his office, where he personally presented him with a bouquet and inquired about the details of the incident. Siddiqui assured the fruit seller of the police department's support, emphasizing that the actions of these officers did not reflect the values of the entire force. He also briefed the vendor on the disciplinary measures being taken against the officers.
The incident has raised concerns about misconduct within Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies. Public backlash over such incidents often forces authorities to act quickly to uphold their credibility. Disciplinary actions and public engagement are seen as essential steps toward police reform. Karachi police have faced similar criticism in the past, making accountability measures increasingly crucial in maintaining public trust.
Earlier, another video surfaced showing police officers assaulting a fruit seller in front of his young daughter, further fueling outrage. The involved officers were dismissed or suspended as a result of the incident.
