The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed serious concern over what it describes as a pattern of staged police encounters allegedly carried out by the Crime Control Department (CCD) in Punjab. The commission warned that such actions could undermine constitutional protections and weaken the rule of law in the province.
In a detailed fact-finding report, HRCP revealed that at least 670 encounters led by the CCD were reported during the first eight months of 2025. These operations reportedly resulted in the deaths of 924 suspects, while only two police officers were killed during the same period.
According to the commission, the significant disparity in casualties and similarities in operational procedures across multiple districts indicate that the incidents may not be isolated cases but part of a broader pattern.
HRCP has called for an urgent, high-level judicial inquiry into the encounter-related deaths. The commission emphasized that law enforcement operations must adhere strictly to international standards governing the use of force. It stressed that lethal force should only be employed when absolutely necessary and proportionate to the threat posed.
The report also recommended an immediate suspension of encounter-based operations across Punjab until appropriate legal safeguards and independent oversight mechanisms are implemented. Additionally, HRCP suggested that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) investigate all encounter-related deaths under the supervision of the National Commission for Human Rights.
Among other recommendations, the commission proposed establishing an independent civilian oversight body to monitor policing practices and ensuring compensation for the families of those killed in the alleged encounters.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the CCD rejected the allegations, asserting that the department operates strictly within legal boundaries and remains committed to maintaining peace and order in Punjab. The spokesperson maintained that individuals killed in the encounters were involved in criminal activities.
HRCP reiterated that safeguarding human rights and ensuring accountability within law enforcement institutions are essential to preserving public trust and constitutional governance.
