Video – Punjab Police Reportedly Assault, Sexually Harass Foreign Tourists

In a series of videos going viral on social media platforms, Punjab police have reportedly assaulted and sexually harassed foreign tourists in Sadiqabad. The incident happened with three tourists, namely, Alex Sidney from Italy, Charles West from the UK, and Motahhareh Abbasi from Iran. The tourists claimed that the harassment started when they entered Punjab on January 25, and the police escort was supposed to ensure their security, but they allegedly attacked them.

Talking to the media, Alex stated that they were having breakfast in a roadside hotel when another police van, different from their escort, reached there and started shouting at them. “When we asked why, one of the officers grabbed me from hair, snatched our camera, threatened us to run over under the vehicle, and took the camera away,” the tourist claimed, adding that more policemen came, and one of them even pointed a gun towards them.

The female cyclist told the media that this is not the first time police have harassed her. “Many times, they asked me for my WhatsApp number and kept on insisting. When I asked them the reason, they would start insulting me. At the start, I gave my number to some, and they started asking me for pictures and sending creepy messages,” she said, adding that she has been receiving creepy messages from Pakistani policemen for the last month.

To watch video, click here.

Punjab Police’s Statement?

Addressing the issue, DPO Rahim Yar Khan issued a video statement where he said it is important to share what transpired on the spot. “These tourists were coming from Sindh to Punjab, and the Sindh police informed us about their arrival. We have to provide security to the tourists,” the DPO said.

He further stated that one of the tourists is from the country where nine Pakistanis were killed recently, ensuring her security more critical. “These tourists refused to take police security,” the DPO claimed, adding that our senior police officials met these tourists, explained the situation to them, gave them gifts, and thanked the Punjab police.

What is your take on this whole incident of harassment of foreign tourists by Punjab police? Please tell us in the comments section.