Police Complaints in Pakistan

Understanding how to interact with the police and file complaints is essential for every citizen. This guide explains your rights, the proper procedures, and - importantly - what actually works in practice.

Know Your Rights

Your Rights on Paper

These are your constitutional and legal rights when dealing with police:

• Right to know the reason for arrest under Article 10 of the Constitution
• Right to legal representation - you can request a lawyer at any time
• Right to remain silent - you are not obligated to answer questions without a lawyer present
• Police cannot enter your home without a warrant (except in emergencies)
• You have the right to file a complaint against police misconduct

What Police Cannot Do (Legally)

• Detain you without informing you of the charges
• Hold you for more than 24 hours without producing you before a magistrate
• Use physical force or torture during interrogation
• Demand bribes or unofficial payments
• Refuse to register an FIR when you report a cognizable offense

The Reality

Let's be honest: these rights exist on paper, but they're rarely respected in practice. Police stations can be intimidating places, and many people find their rights ignored or dismissed.

That said, things are slowly improving - and there are ways to get help when the local police aren't cooperating. The key is knowing where to escalate.

Filing an FIR (First Information Report)

What is an FIR?

An FIR is the first step in the criminal justice process. It is a written document prepared by the police when they receive information about a cognizable offense.

When to File an FIR

File an FIR for cognizable offenses including:

• Theft, robbery, or burglary
• Assault or physical violence
• Threats and intimidation
• Fraud and cheating
• Property disputes involving criminal elements
• Traffic accidents with injuries

How to File an FIR

1. Visit the police station with jurisdiction over the area where the incident occurred.
2. Provide your statement to the Moharrar (duty officer).
3. Include all relevant details: date, time, location, description of the incident, names of suspects (if known), and any witnesses.
4. Request a copy of the FIR—this is your legal right.
5. Note the FIR number for future reference.

Important: The police are legally obligated to register your FIR. If they refuse, you can approach the SP (Superintendent of Police) or file a complaint with the courts.

If Police Refuse to Register Your FIR

This happens often. Don't give up - there are escalation options that actually work.

IG Police Helplines (Actually Helpful)

Contrary to what you might expect, the IG (Inspector General) helplines in major cities are surprisingly responsive. These are direct lines to senior police oversight, and complaints here often get action.

When you call:

• Have your details ready (incident, location, police station involved)
• Note down the complaint number they give you
• Follow up if you don't hear back within a few days

These helplines exist specifically because senior police know that local stations don't always do their job. Use them.

Other Escalation Steps

1. Written Application: Submit a written application to the SHO (Station House Officer) and keep a copy.

2. Approach Senior Officers:

   • DSP (Deputy Superintendent of Police)
   • SP (Superintendent of Police)
   • DIG (Deputy Inspector General)

3. File in Court: Under Section 22-A of the Criminal Procedure Code, you can approach the Sessions Court to direct police to register your FIR.

4. Pakistan Citizen Portal: File a complaint at citizenportal.gov.pk - this is monitored and does get responses, though it can be slow.

Filing Complaints Against Police

Types of Police Misconduct

• Refusal to register FIR
• Illegal detention
• Physical abuse or torture
• Corruption and bribery demands
• Harassment or intimidation
• Negligence in investigation

Where to Complain

What to Include in Your Complaint

• Your complete information (name, CNIC, address, contact)
• Details of the officer(s) involved (name, rank, station)
• Date, time, and location of the incident
• Detailed description of what happened
• Any evidence (photos, videos, documents)
• Names of witnesses

Interacting with Police During Stops

Traffic Stops

• Pull over safely and turn off your engine.
• Keep your hands visible.
• Provide your license and vehicle documents when asked.
• You can refuse vehicle searches without a warrant (note: police may still search if they claim "reasonable suspicion").
• Ask for the officer's name and badge number.

If Asked to Visit the Police Station

• Ask if you are being arrested or detained.
• If not, you have the right to decline.
• If you agree to go, inform a family member or friend.
• You can request to have a lawyer present.

Emergency Contacts

• Police Emergency: 15
• Rescue Services: 1122
• Pakistan Citizen Portal: 8090
• Women Protection Helpline: 1099

Quick Tips

• Always remain calm and polite - this protects you and helps de-escalate situations
• Document everything: take notes, photos, and videos when possible
• Know your local police station's jurisdiction
• Keep copies of all complaints and FIRs
• Consider having a lawyer's contact saved in your phone
• Save the IG helpline number for your city - it's your best escalation option

Key Takeaways

1. Your rights exist but aren't always respected. Know them anyway.
2. IG helplines actually work. Use them when local police won't help.
3. Document everything. Written applications, photos, videos.
4. Stay calm and persistent. Getting frustrated rarely helps.
5. Escalate when needed. Don't accept "no" if you have a legitimate complaint.

Last updated: February 2026

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information. Laws and procedures vary by province and can change. For serious legal matters, consult a lawyer.