KARACHI: Sindh Home Minister Zia Lanjar on Saturday evening met the parents of missing minor girl Priya Kumari and assured them that the police had evidence that she is alive.

The meeting was held at the Chief Minister House and also attended by members of a negotiating team formed after Friday’s protest at Teen Talwar.

They were briefed by DIG Javed Jiskani about efforts of a joint investigation team for the recovery of the missing girl.

The home minister observed that it was a ‘blind case’ but the Sindh police had revived the hope of solving it.

Zia Lanjar meets parents of missing girl at CM House

“Priya Kumari is alive and we have evidence,” the minister told the grieving parents, according to a statement issued after the meeting.

He added that the investigation team would achieve a breakthrough.

Four policemen suspended for assaulting journalists

Four policemen were suspended over charges of beating media persons during coverage of a protest by civil society organisations at Teen Talwar roundabout on Friday night for recovery of seven-year-old Priya Kumari who went missing from Sukkur three years ago while distributing Sabeel on 10th Muharram, officials said.

“We condemn torture against journalists and no one would be allowed to misuse their powers,” a police spokesperson said, adding that during an initial probe, four policemen were found responsible for “misbehaviour” against the newsmen and that they had been suspended by SSP South and an inquiry had been initiated for further legal action.

He said all legal requirements would be fulfilled and departmental action would be taken against the four suspended officers.

Published in Dawn, July 21st, 2024