Karachi Police Face Backlash Over VIP Protocol Given to Alleged Drug Dealer ‘Pinky’

Karachi police came under heavy criticism on Tuesday after a high-profile alleged drug dealer, Anmol alias Pinky, was presented before a judicial magistrate without handcuffs and under what appeared to be special security protocol, allegedly violating standard operating procedures (SOPs).

According to police officials, Pinky was arrested a day earlier in Karachi’s Garden area and had been wanted in at least 10 criminal cases. Authorities claimed to have recovered weapons, cocaine, and other narcotics worth approximately Rs1.5 million from her possession.

Police said the suspect was allegedly running a citywide drug distribution network and supplying narcotics through online orders using designated riders, including female couriers.

Following court proceedings, the judicial magistrate sent the accused to jail on judicial remand.

The controversy erupted after a video surfaced on social media showing Pinky, wearing sunglasses and walking freely without handcuffs while being escorted by police personnel at the court premises. The footage triggered widespread criticism online, with many questioning the preferential treatment allegedly given to the suspect.

Azad Khan took notice of the incident and ordered an inquiry into the conduct of the officers involved. A spokesperson for Karachi police stated that violations of SOPs and laws would not be tolerated and all personnel are required to follow official regulations.

Meanwhile, Javed Alam Odho also sought a detailed report from the Karachi police chief and ordered the immediate suspension of officers found negligent. He further directed the formation of an investigation committee comprising senior officers to ensure a transparent probe.

Later, Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar also demanded a report and announced that a joint investigation team (JIT) would be constituted to investigate the matter thoroughly.

The home minister termed the alleged VIP treatment “unacceptable” and stressed that anyone responsible for violating SOPs must face legal action. He stated that the police uniform represents public trust and warned that misuse of authority would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Authorities later transferred the inquiry to the SSP South, while SHO Garden Police Station Hanif Sial, Investigation Officer Saeed Ahmed, and SIU Inspector Zafar Iqbal were suspended over the incident.