Pakistani police arrested a cleric on Monday accused of torturing a 14-year-old seminary student to death in Lahore.
The suspect, identified as Qari Ghulam Rasool, was detained by Burki police after raids at multiple locations, a spokesperson for the city's deputy inspector general (DIG) of operations said.
What happened to the seminary student in Lahore?
A 14-year-old seminary student from Bahawalnagar district died after allegedly being subjected to severe physical abuse at a madrassa in Lahore's cantonment area on Saturday.
His family did not report the abuse immediately. Instead, they took him back to Bahawalnagar for private medical treatment, but he later died of his injuries.
How did police learn of the alleged torture?
The case only reached authorities after the student's family contacted the police helpline following his death. Burki police then travelled to Bahawalnagar to begin legal proceedings.
They halted the burial to complete mandatory legal formalities before the body was sent to a hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Who filed the murder case against the cleric?
A murder case was registered against Rasool based on a complaint filed by the boy's uncle. Police said the investigation is being carried out in light of the post-mortem report and other available evidence.
The DIG Operations spokesperson said authorities would ensure a transparent and impartial inquiry.
What happens next in the investigation?
Police said those found responsible would be brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The case has renewed scrutiny of abuse allegations at religious seminaries across Pakistan, where similar incidents have been reported in past years. Authorities have not yet announced when the post-mortem findings will be released.
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