Cricketer Sohaib Maqsood raised allegations of extortion against Sindh Police personnel during a recent road trip from Karachi to Multan. The incident, as detailed by Maqsood on social media, involved being stopped by police officials in Sakrand, Sindh, where he claimed to have been extorted of Rs8,000 despite identifying himself as an international cricketer.
The cricketer’s tweet highlighted the alleged corruption within the provincial police force, expressing relief at living in Punjab. According to Maqsood, the police demanded payment, threatening to take him and his companion to the police station if they refused.
The Sindh Police responded promptly to these accusations, acknowledging the involvement of four officers from Sakrand. They confirmed the initiation of legal proceedings against these officers and the suspension of the station head officer (SHO) and the chief clerk for negligence in this matter.
Maqsood recounted the ordeal during an interview, mentioning the initial demand for vehicle documents and a purported Rs100,000 penalty for using high-beam lights. Despite Maqsood’s attempt to explain jurisdictional boundaries, the officers persisted, eventually accepting Rs8,000 after negotiation.
IGP Sindh, Raffat Raja, took note of the incident and directed an immediate inquiry, assigning DIG Shaheed Benazirabad to investigate and furnish a detailed report.
Maqsood expressed fear and apprehension due to the isolated and late-night encounter, emphasizing the unsettling nature of the situation.
The swift response from Sindh Police, with arrests made and officers suspended, reflects an earnest attempt to address the allegations of corruption and extortion, ensuring accountability within the force.
The case underscores the need for vigilance against such incidents and the importance of upholding professionalism and integrity within law enforcement agencies.
