Islamabad Tribune Story Leads to Action as SSP Suleman Zafar Orders Departmental Proceedings Against SI in Viral Slap Case

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Police have initiated formal departmental proceedings against Sub-Inspector Muhammad Saleem (ID-744) after a viral video showing him slapping a young man in Islamabad’s New Blue Area sparked widespread public criticism. The action comes after Islamabad Tribune first highlighted the incident, raising concerns over the conduct of police personnel during public interactions.

Following the publication of the story by Islamabad Tribune, SSP Security & Admin (Ops) Suleman Zafar took notice of the matter and ordered immediate action. The officer was suspended from duty, and an official show cause notice was issued on July 8, 2026, charging him with misconduct and negligence while performing official duties.

According to the show cause notice, SI Muhammad Saleem, who was posted at Police Station Margalla and assigned to duty at Naka E-9, became the subject of serious public complaints regarding his behaviour with members of the public on July 8. The6 notice states that his conduct was inconsistent with the standards expected from a senior police officer and had the potential to tarnish the image and reputation of Islamabad Police.

The notice further states that every police officer is responsible for dealing with citizens in a professional and respectful manner. It alleges that the officer failed to uphold these standards, amounting to misconduct, negligence in the discharge of official duties, and a violation of departmental discipline.

Under the Punjab Police (Efficiency & Discipline) Rules, 1975, the officer has been asked to submit a written explanation within seven days explaining why disciplinary action, including major penalties, should not be taken against him. If no reply is received within the stipulated period, the department may proceed ex parte.

Earlier, Islamabad Police said preliminary findings suggested that the youths seen in the viral video were allegedly involved in begging and that multiple complaints had been received from citizens about them harassing passersby. However, SSP Suleman Zafar maintained that regardless of the circumstances, unprofessional behaviour by police officials towards citizens is unacceptable, and disciplinary action would be taken wherever misconduct is established.

The case has drawn significant public attention and renewed debate over police professionalism, accountability, and the appropriate use of authority during law enforcement operations in the federal capital.