FAISALABAD: A total of 34 suspects were killed and 86 others, along with a police head constable, were injured during 100 reported police encounters across Faisalabad district over the past 40 days, according to police statistics. The incidents have sparked debate among legal and human rights circles over the frequency of such encounters and the need for transparency in investigations.
Police Encounters in Faisalabad District
Police records show that from May 8 to June 16, law enforcement agencies reported 100 encounters in various parts of the district. Authorities stated that the deceased suspects were allegedly killed by firing from their own accomplices during exchanges of gunfire with police, while the injured suspects were shifted to hospitals for treatment.
New CPO's Strategy
The sharp increase in reported encounters followed the appointment of City Police Officer (CPO) Tanveer Hussain Taneo, who assumed charge on May 8 after serving at the Crime Control Department (CCD) headquarters. Upon taking office, the CPO introduced a strategy aimed at curbing crime and directed police teams to intensify operations against proclaimed offenders and active criminal gangs.
Highest Encounters in Saddar Faisalabad
According to official figures, the highest number of encounters was reported in the jurisdiction of Saddar Faisalabad Police Station, where 11 encounters resulted in four suspects being killed and 12 injured. Several other police stations across the district also reported encounters, including Nishatabad, Roshanwala, Jhang Bazaar, Batala Colony, Jaranwala City, Samundri, Ghulam Muhammadabad, Factory Area, Chak Jhumra, Sahianwala and others.
Comparison with Earlier Months
The latest figures contrast sharply with statistics from the first four months of the year. Between January and April 2026, police reported 35 encounters in the district, during which 10 suspects were killed and 37 individuals, including a police constable, were injured.
Human Rights Concerns
However, the growing number of reported encounters has raised concerns among members of the legal fraternity and human rights advocates. Advocate Owais Munawar Randhawa, a human rights activist and High Court lawyer, questioned the unusually high number of encounters within a short period, stating that the trend raises important questions about the criminal justice system and public confidence in legal processes. He emphasised the need for independent scrutiny of such incidents to ensure adherence to the rule of law.
