ISLAMABAD: The investigation wing of Islamabad police has been revamped with the purpose to ensure speedy and quality investigation in criminal cases.

A senior superintendent of police (SSP) has been appointed as head of the investigation wing while a forensic science team will assist during the investigation of a crime.

Two separate squads – Special Investigation and Anti-Proclaimed Offenders – have been constituted to ensure speedy investigation of criminal cases and arrest of criminals.

Over the years, questions have been raised and fingers pointed to the capital police over their method of investigation and shoving matters under the carpet. A few weeks ago, a youth, Osama Satti, was shot dead by officials of the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTB). All possible means were used to cover up the incident and declare the deceased a criminal. However, a judicial inquiry proved otherwise.

Similarly, on Jan 23, Mazhar Bhatti, whose land was occupied by the land mafia in the jurisdiction of Loi Bher police, could not get support from the police. He died of a heart attack in the district court.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Qazi Jamilur Rehman on Sunday claimed that revamping of the investigation wing would help in carrying out quality investigation into cases and bring the entire investigation process at par with international standards.

A senior official of the police, who is not authorised to speak on record, told Dawn that in forensic science Dr Edmond Locard’s exchange principle states that whenever a crime takes place the perpetrator brings something to or leaves something at the crime scene which can be used as forensic evidence.

He said there are four parts of crime scene management: protection, training, resources and standard operating procedure (SOP).

“Whenever a crime takes place, protection of the scene is the first step for an investigation. As police or rescue officials usually reach the place of crime first, they should be properly trained to protect the crime scene. Criminals can leave hair, saliva, blood, seminal fluid, influenza liquid etc., which can be used for DNA testing. Moreover, fingerprints are also collected,” he added.

However, it is widely observed that in Pakistan, mediapersons, residents and even police officials do not care about crime scene management. There is a need to train staff, give awareness to citizens and make SOP for crime scene management, he said, adding: “Unfortunately, proper training is not given to officials to protect the crime scene. However, we are hopeful that the decision to revamp the investigation wing will address most of these issues.”

According to a statement, the revamping process was initiated on the directions of the IGP. SP investigation (East) and SP investigation (West) will report to the SSP investigation.

Mr Rehman said citizens’ complaints will be addressed in a timely manner and imprisonment of criminals will be ensured through prompt submission of challans to courts.

Police personnel of the wing will collect evidence on time so investigation can be transparent, he said, adding delivery of justice to the citizen was the top priority of police.

Meanwhile, a head constable of Islamabad police died after being hit by a vehicle near Islamabad Club. The injured, Abdul Wadood from Mardan, was shifted to hospital where he died.

Published in Dawn, January 25th, 2021