HYDERABAD: A case of alleged short-term kidnapping involving police officials has surfaced in Hyderabad after a private banquet hall owner was reportedly abducted and forced to pay Rs2 million for his release.
Three policemen, with the help of two alleged drug peddlers, had reportedly abducted the owner of the Ghoonghat Banquet, identified as Nasir, a few days ago. The suspects allegedly kept him in a private vehicle and drove around the Hali Road area of the city for several hours before releasing him after receiving the ransom.
SP Shahzaib Chachar, who is currently holding the charge of Hyderabad SSP, took notice of the incident and suspended the three policemen, placing them under quarter guard. The two peddlers involved in the case were sent to jail after being challaned in narcotics and gutka cases.
Police sources said the victim was allegedly picked up by the Hosri and Seri police stations’ officials with the assistance of the two peddlers. After negotiations and the payment of Rs2 million, he was released.
Upon learning about the incident, senior police officers ordered an inquiry. The CIA police arrested police constables Talha Qureshi, Sabir and Shahrukh, who reportedly admitted to to their involvement in the short-term kidnapping during interrogation.
The Sindh police chief took notice of the incident on Saturday and sought a detailed report from Hyderabad DIG Tariq Razzaq Dharejo, and also ordered strict action against all those involved in the case.
Sources said that the Rs2 million allegedly taken from the banquet owner has not yet been fully recovered. Official orders have also been issued to register a formal FIR of the kidnapping incident.
