Two women arrested on allegations of theft and fraud died while in police custody in Lahore, prompting fresh scrutiny of police procedures just a day after another incident involving alleged sexual assault by a police officer inside a separate police station drew widespread attention.
According to Lahore Police, the women were taken into custody following complaints of theft and fraud. Officials said both became unwell during detention and were shifted to hospital by Rescue 1122, where doctors pronounced them dead. Police said initial findings suggest the deaths may have been linked to excessive drug use, but a post-mortem examination and further inquiry will determine the exact cause.
Police say investigation is underway
Police officials said the women had been arrested after complainants accused them of entering a house, allegedly stealing gold jewelry and cash, and attempting to flee. According to the complainant, local residents apprehended the women before handing them over to police.
Lahore Police stated that one woman fell unconscious at Township Police Station while the other lost consciousness at Lytton Road Police Station after being transferred for further investigation. Rescue 1122 was called immediately, and both women were transported to hospital.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Faisal Kamran denied allegations that the women had been subjected to torture or mistreatment while in custody. He said preliminary inquiry reports indicated that both women were habitual drug users, though he stressed that the matter requires a comprehensive investigation.
Police officials added that they are coordinating with hospital authorities to complete post-mortem examinations, which are expected to establish the cause of death.
Incident follows separate misconduct case
The deaths come as Lahore Police continues to face public scrutiny over a separate case in which an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) was arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a mentally challenged girl inside Ghaziabad Police Station.
Following that incident, authorities suspended 78 police personnel, including sub-inspectors, assistant sub-inspectors, head constables, front desk staff, and other officials, while disciplinary proceedings were initiated against officers posted at the station.
The latest custodial deaths have intensified calls for a transparent investigation as police await forensic and medical findings to determine the circumstances surrounding the women’s deaths.
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