Transgender video case: PHC dissatisfied with probe by police

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court (PHC) on Friday expressed displeasure over the inadequate investigation conducted by the police in the case involving the viral indecent video of transgender person, Ayan Ali, also known as Dolphin.

The single bench, led by Justice Shakeel Ahmad, heard the case. The petitioner, Ijaz Baghi’s counsel, Additional Advocate General Inamullah, DSP Investigation, and the lawyer representing Ayan Ali were present.

During the hearing, Justice Shakeel Ahmad remarked that there were numerous flaws in the investigation, emphasizing the importance of timely and proper probes. He noted that DNA tests were conducted in other countries as part of investigations.

He said: “The police force was established to protect the people. If this cannot be ensured, we will summon the inspector general of police and other senior officials”.The petitioner’s lawyer informed the court that the accused, Ijaz Baghi, was named in the FIR for the viral video case and had sought bail. He argued that the investigation had not been conducted properly.

When the DSP Investigation appeared in the court, Justice Shakeel Ahmad questioned why the investigation officer had failed to complete the probe.He pointed out that no identification parade of the accused was conducted, nor was the video sent for forensic analysis.

The DSP Investigation explained that a settlement had been reached between the complainant and the main accused and that the identification parade was not conducted because the accused was abroad.

Additional Advocate General informed the court that the accused was named in 12 other cases. He suggested that the accused be required to undertake that he would not have any further contact with the transgender individuals involved.