A security guard arrested on suspicion of raping a student at a private college has been released after investigations found insufficient evidence to substantiate the claim, police confirmed on Thursday. The guard was initially detained in Sargodha after accusations of sexual assault emerged from students. However, following a comprehensive inquiry, authorities determined there was not enough proof to proceed, resulting in his release.
Following the allegation, tensions escalated at the college as students and unidentified individuals protested, leading to acts of vandalism and arson. The Lahore police subsequently filed charges against 200 to 250 unidentified protesters at Harbanspura police station. According to the First Information Report (FIR), protesters caused significant property damage, with motorcycles being set ablaze and six staff members’ vehicles torched.
The FIR, filed by Sub-Inspector Usman Akbar, describes how the protest spiraled into violence. Protesters allegedly threw petrol bombs at police officers and damaged college property extensively. Police have so far detained 24 individuals suspected of involvement in the unrest and are actively working to identify others.
Local law enforcement officials have condemned the violent acts, especially the use of petrol bombs against officers, and affirmed their commitment to restoring order in the community. The police pledged to maintain security and hold accountable all those responsible for the violence.
