In a decisive move against internal corruption, Rawalpindi City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani has dismissed 17 police officials for their alleged connections with drug traffickers operating in the city.
The action follows an internal probe conducted under the Punjab Police Department’s accountability framework. According to police officials, the dismissed personnel were found to have supported or collaborated with narcotics dealers, undermining ongoing efforts to curb drug-related crimes.
The individuals dismissed include one sub-inspector, four assistant sub-inspectors (ASIs), four head constables, and eight constables. Among those removed is former Station House Officer (SHO) Sub-Inspector Anwarul Haq. Other ASIs named in the dismissal are Imran Khalid, Umar, Nadeem, and Shakoor. Head Constables Zarif, Anis, and Naseer, as well as Constables Sami and Imtiaz, were also among those terminated.
CPO Khalid Hamdani emphasized that the dismissals are part of a wider crackdown ordered by the Punjab Chief Minister to eliminate drug trafficking and its enablers within law enforcement. He stated that any police personnel found colluding with criminal networks will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law.
“This is a zero-tolerance approach,” Hamdani said during a press briefing. “We are committed to restoring public trust and ensuring that the police serve the people, not criminals.”
The CPO noted that these actions have been widely welcomed by the public, who have long demanded accountability in the fight against narcotics. He further revealed that over 500 drug dealers in Rawalpindi are currently serving prison terms ranging from 10 to 20 years following their convictions.
The department has pledged to continue internal audits and inquiries to root out any further misconduct within its ranks, aiming to reinforce transparency and integrity in the force.
