Police Rearrest Sanghera After Four-Day Search
Police in Lahore have arrested former Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue (ADCR) Sialkot, Iqbal Sanghera, after he escaped custody earlier this month. Authorities accused him of accepting millions of rupees in bribes from a private housing society. He faces trial in an anti-corruption court, which continues to hear the case.
Lahore police formed a special team, tracked Sanghera based on intelligence tips, and arrested him without incident. The authorities transferred him to Kot Lakhpat Jail, where he will remain until the court completes legal proceedings.
The Dramatic Escape
Police reports indicate that on 13 November, officers were transporting Sanghera from Lahore to Rawalpindi for a court hearing. They stopped at the Chakri Motorway rest area, where Sanghera slipped from police custody in a dramatic move.
The escape triggered public criticism of police protocols for transporting high-profile detainees. Chakri Police Station promptly filed a case against him. The police named four officials, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), for negligence and facilitation of the escape. The police also launched an internal inquiry to identify procedural lapses and ensure accountability.
Anti-Corruption Case Details
The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) accused Sanghera of receiving tens of millions of rupees in bribes in exchange for favorable land approvals. The bribery involved a private housing society seeking clearance and development permissions.
Pakistan’s real estate sector frequently attracts scrutiny because land administration officials control approvals that can influence property values and urban development. Allegations against officers often include illegal land transfers, record manipulation, and approval of unregulated housing projects.
ACE officials have collected financial documents, witness statements, and digital evidence linking Sanghera to suspicious transactions. Although Sanghera denies wrongdoing, the court continues to examine evidence and hear testimonies.
Special Police Operation Secures Rearrest
After Sanghera’s escape, Rawalpindi police formed a dedicated task force to locate and rearrest him. They coordinated with Lahore police and intelligence agencies, conducting surveillance in likely hideouts.
Police spokespersons described the operation as swift and efficient, stressing that Sanghera did not resist arrest. Senior officers praised the team’s efforts and assured the public that the authorities would tighten security during prisoner transfers.
Implications and Next Steps
Sanghera now remains in judicial custody while the anti-corruption trial proceeds. If convicted, he may face significant prison time and fines under Pakistan’s anti-corruption laws.
The four police officers implicated in his escape may face suspension, penalties, or legal action if authorities find them negligent or complicit.
The case has reignited debate over corruption in Pakistan’s bureaucracy and exposed weaknesses in law enforcement procedures. Analysts say the case highlights the challenges authorities face in maintaining transparency, accountability, and public trust while prosecuting high-profile officials.
