Sindh Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho ordered a comprehensive investigation into the alleged assault on senior journalist and former Crime Reporters Association (CRA) president Kashif Hashmi at Nazimabad police station, directing authorities to identify those responsible and take legal action.

Hashmi was reportedly performing his professional duties at the police station when personnel from District Central police and the Crime Investigation Agency’s Special Investigation Unit allegedly subjected him to physical and verbal abuse. His mobile phone was also reportedly damaged.

SSP District Central Dr Muhammad Imran Khan ordered an inquiry, assigning DSP Naseem Kamal of Nazimabad to investigate the incident. The inquiry aims to examine all aspects of the case and determine whether police personnel misused their authority. A suspect identified as Ali, son of Muhammad Samad, was detained on the SSP’s orders.

IGP Odho said mistreatment and violence against journalists would not be tolerated, stressing that the investigation must be impartial and that those found responsible would face legal consequences. He also directed police officers to maintain discipline and follow their professional code of conduct.

The CRA condemned the alleged assault, describing it as an attack on press freedom. It called for accountability for the officers involved and the station house officer, who was accused of failing to intervene, and warned of further action if the authorities did not address the matter promptly.