Sindh’s ACE begins probe into allegations of inmates’ abuse

The Sindh Enquiries and Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) department has initiated a thorough investigation into serious allegations of prisoner abuse, drug sales, and corruption within the Central Prison in Hyderabad.

The move follows a detailed complaint submitted by an inmate that has captured the attention of high-ranking officials within the ACE.

The official correspondence, copies of which are available with The News, the complaint, addressed to the chairman of the Sindh Anti-Corruption Establishment, Syed Zulfiqar Shah, details grave accusations against the Hyderabad Prison authorities and influential inmates. The inmate, whose identity has been kept confidential by the Anti-Corruption authorities for safety reasons, alleges that prisoners who failed to meet illegal demands from prison officials have been subjected to brutal torture and humiliation.

The complaint also highlights disturbing claims of sexual abuse and further humiliation of younger prisoners by more influential inmates, allegedly with the complicity of prison authorities. These severe allegations point to systemic abuse and corruption within the prison system.

In response to these grave concerns, Chairman Syed Zulfiqar Shah has ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the allegations. He has directed Director Imtiaz Abro of the Anti-Corruption Establishment to lead the inquiry and submit a report.

The investigation will focus on several critical issues, including of examining claims of physical and psychological abuse inflicted on prisoners who fail to comply with corrupt demands from prison officials, and investigating allegations of drug consumption and illegal sales within the prison, which suggests a high level of corruption and mismanagement. Besides, the ACE authorities will scrutinize claims of sexual exploitation of younger inmates by influential prisoners, potentially with the tacit approval or negligence of prison staff.

A senior officer of the Anti-Corruption Establishment informed The News that the investigation aims to hold accountable those responsible for these abuses and restore justice and order within the prison system and in the meantime the authorities are working to ensure the safety of the inmates who have come forward with these serious allegations, as well as to prevent any further abuse or corruption within the prison system.

This inquiry represents a significant step towards addressing longstanding issues of corruption and abuse in the Sindh prison system and reaffirms the commitment of the Anti-Corruption Establishment to uphold justice and human rights.