Viral Video Sparks Online Outcry
A video showing police officers assaulting a student in the Thana Saddar area of Jhelum spread rapidly across social media this week. Within hours, the footage travelled through Facebook, X, and WhatsApp, and it generated strong criticism from users across the country. Many viewers expressed shock as the clip showed officers hitting a visibly frightened student. Consequently, people demanded strict action and questioned the conduct of the local police.
In response to the growing anger, Jhelum District Police Officer (DPO) Tariq Aziz Sandhu reviewed the clip and quickly suspended the constables involved. He emphasised that the force cannot tolerate behaviour that undermines public trust or violates legal standards.
Inquiry Committee Formed to Establish Clear Facts
Soon after the suspension orders, the DPO directed a complete investigation into the incident. To ensure transparency, he created a special inquiry committee led by the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Saddar Circle. The committee began work without delay.
During the inquiry, investigators met several witnesses and examined internal duty records. They also analysed the video frame by frame. As a result, they developed a clear timeline of events and identified specific actions that violated police procedures. After completing their review, the committee presented its findings to the DPO.
The report confirmed that the officers had used unnecessary force and ignored standard operational guidelines. Moreover, it highlighted that the officers failed to follow basic principles of restraint and communication, which police manuals strongly emphasise.
DPO Orders Disciplinary Measures
After receiving the report, DPO Sandhu ordered disciplinary action against the responsible officers. He stated that no officer has the authority to mistreat citizens under any circumstances. Furthermore, he explained that strong and consistent accountability remains essential for maintaining discipline within the force.
According to police officials, disciplinary measures can include formal warnings, demotions, reassignments, or even dismissal. The final decision will follow a department-wide review of the case. Even so, the DPO made it clear that the incident will not be ignored.
He added that strict action strengthens public confidence in the police because it signals that the institution does not shield wrongdoing. Additionally, he noted that the department must consistently show commitment to professionalism if it wants to maintain credibility.
Police Leadership Reaffirms Commitment to Public Safety
In a later statement, the DPO reaffirmed the police department’s commitment to protecting citizens and upholding the rule of law. He said the force encourages professional conduct at all levels. Therefore, any officer who misuses authority will face consequences.
He also mentioned that the Punjab Police have introduced several reforms over the past few years. For instance, many stations now follow improved complaint-handling systems and clearer protocols for arrest and detention. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that gaps remain and that more training in communication and de-escalation can further reduce such incidents.
Public Reaction and Calls for Stronger Police Oversight
The video also renewed national debate about police behaviour in Pakistan. Many residents of Jhelum praised the swift response from the DPO. They said the quick action showed that leadership at the district level can improve accountability. In addition, social-media users urged authorities to make disciplinary outcomes more transparent.
Meanwhile, human-rights organisations repeated their demand for stronger oversight mechanisms. They argued that Pakistan still lacks independent bodies that can monitor police conduct effectively. As a result, cases of excessive force continue to surface from time to time.
Advocates also stressed the need for better training and modern equipment, including body-worn cameras, to discourage abusive behaviour. Although some provinces have taken steps toward reform, progress remains uneven.
Incident Underscores Need for Ongoing Reform
Ultimately, the Jhelum incident demonstrated how quickly public trust can erode when officers misuse their authority. It also showed that swift action can help restore confidence, at least in the short term.
For now, the police leadership promises a transparent process. Officials say the incident will guide further reforms aimed at preventing similar cases in the future. They also believe the inquiry shows that accountability remains possible when institutions act decisively.
