Journalist Arrested Over Attempted Rape

Hyderabad police arrested journalist Abdul Ghafoor Sarohi on suspicion of attempted rape following a home raid. The arrestees were released before midnight, and the FIR was later downgraded to a C-class case by the police, suggesting a procedural error. The court had previously authorized a two-day physical detention of Sarohi. According to his family, around 20 officers stormed their Qasimabad apartment around 3am after breaching the metal gate.

The incident was recorded at Market police station on October 8. A woman claimed that Sarohi, along with an unidentified accomplice, had attempted to rape her at her residence on October 5. She also alleged that Sarohi had threatened her. Sarohi alleged police torture in custody, leading to a court order for a medical examination.

His family, fellow journalists, lawyers, and civil society activists protested outside the SSP's office, alleging the case was fabricated. Sarohi is known for criticizing Hyderabad police for their supposed negligence in tackling drug trafficking. His attorney, Sajjad Ahmed Chandio, stated that an FIR alone is insufficient for an arrest.

Advocate Aslam Laghari demanded a transparent investigation by the Federal Investigation Agency, alleging police bias. The allegations against Sarohi remain unproven.