The Supreme Court Expressed Dismay at the Incompetence Displayed in Investigating of the Crimes against Journalists --- SCP
Islamabad 16-05-2024: In a recent development, the Supreme Court of Pakistan in case [Suo Motu Case No.4 & 5/2021 and Constitution Petitions No.27/2022, 4/2024 and 22/2024] has ordered a fresh investigation into the matter of attacks on three journalists: Mr. Absar Alam, Mr. Matiullah Jan, and Mr. Asad Ali Toor. The Bench of Court consisting of Mr. Justice Qazi Faez Isa (Chief Justice), Mr. Justice Irfan Saadat Khan and Mr. Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan expressed dissatisfaction with the initial investigations and highlighted several lapses in the process. The Supreme Court expressed dismay at the incompetence displayed in investigating these crimes against journalists and directed the Inspector General of Police to substitute the investigation team with competent officers. Additionally, the court ordered the publication of discernible photographs and sketches of the perpetrators in widely circulated newspapers, with a reward offered for information leading to their identification. The case is scheduled to be reviewed after 30 days.
Mr. Matiullah Jan's representative, Mr. Salahuddin Ahmed, pointed out deficiencies in the investigation, emphasizing the failure to explore all avenues. The court was surprised that crucial evidence, such as the location of Mr. Jan's thrown mobile phone, was not sought, which could have aided in tracing the abductors. It was noted that only a portion of the video recording was analyzed forensically, prompting the court to direct the entire recording to be sent for analysis. Mr. Jan highlighted the lack of effort to obtain recordings from nearby buildings and the Safe City Project cameras, indicating a failure to exhaust investigative measures.
The Attorney-General informed the court that suspects involved in Mr. Alam's case are abroad, and the government has initiated proceedings through Interpol for their arrest. Sketches of the perpetrators involved in Mr. Toor's case have been prepared, but discrepancies were noted in their accuracy. Mr. Toor pointed out the neglect in geo fencing and IMEI tracking of the perpetrators' phones, which could have provided vital leads. Despite the perpetrators claiming affiliation with the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), investigators have not contacted the ISI directly, reflecting incompetence.
Discrepancies were found in a petition filed by six petitioners, leading three of them to disassociate themselves from it. The court directed the filing of affidavits by the concerned parties to address various procedural questions and discrepancies. Notices were reissued to absent petitioners, with specific instructions for their attendance.
The Supreme Court noted the establishment of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency and directed Mr. Salahuddin Ahmed to examine its implications for his petition before the next hearing.
Powered by Froala Editor
