Pakistan court denies bail, sends suspects to police custody in biker assault case

A local court in Karachi on Tuesday granted police a two-day physical remand of two suspects in the DHA assault case. It rejected their bail pleas, following widespread outrage over a viral video showing a man disembarking from his car and violently beating a motorcyclist after a minor collision.

The suspects, including Salman Farooqi, were brought to court by Gizri Police for a second appearance. The case involves the assault of Dheeraj and Kalpana, two civilians attacked last week.

The incident occurred on Sunday night in DHA’s Khayaban-e-Ittehad area. According to details, Dheeraj, who was riding with his sister Kalpana, accidentally collided with a vehicle owned by Farooqi.

Farooqui exited his vehicle, accompanied by several men traveling in his other jeep, and began assaulting the biker, slapping him repeatedly despite the victim’s sister pleading for mercy on his behalf.

The attack was witnessed by numerous bystanders and was captured on video, which soon went viral on social media, prompting widespread calls for justice.

The key suspect involved in the assault was arrested a day after the video went viral on social media.

Farooqi’s lawyer, Advocate Naeem Qureshi, was present in court and filed a bail application on his client’s behalf.

He argued that the case against Farooqi involved “only threats,” which is a bailable offense under Pakistani law.

However, the court staff rejected the bail application. Officials said the sections applied to the suspects required trial in a sessions court.

“The charges fall under a session trial,” court staff said. “Bail must be sought from the sessions court.”

Following the court proceedings, several lawyers and unknown men assaulted the suspects as they were being escorted out.

Later in the day, Dheeraj and Kalpana, along with their family, met with Karachi’s Deputy Inspector General South.

According to the police, the family initially did not come forward due to fear and pressure. But after receiving assurances of protection and full cooperation from the police, they approached authorities to give their statements.

“You do not need to fear anyone,” DIG South told the family. “Sindh Police stands by you and will provide complete security.”

The DIG said that on orders from the Sindh Chief Minister, victim support units have been established across all police districts. These units are responsible for assisting victims and ensuring timely justice.

“Respect for women is part of Sindh’s identity,” the police chief said. “Those who mistreat women will be made examples.”

Police said they have made significant progress in the investigation. Four suspects, including the prime accused, have been arrested. Authorities are building a strong case based on CCTV footage and other solid evidence.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had taken notice of the case and directed law enforcement to ensure the prompt arrest of those responsible and the swift delivery of justice.