The preliminary investigation report has surfaced regarding the incident in Swat where a citizen was lynched and set on fire following allegations of blasphemy.
The report highlights lapses in police conduct, noting that the accused was moved from a hotel to a police station without adequate safety measures or consultation with higher authorities.
According to the document, produced by a federal entity under the Ministry of Interior, the event unfolded after hotel management forced the accused, Suleiman, to open his room door. Upon opening the door, Suleiman immediately denied any desecration of the Quran. Despite his denials, the lack of senior police or political presence at the station as the mob arrived significantly worsened the situation.
The report details that while in custody, Suleiman continued to refute the blasphemy accusations. During the ensuing chaos, the police attempted to manage the situation and safeguard Suleiman, leading to a violent clash with protesters. This confrontation resulted in injuries to 11 civilians and five police officers. Additionally, the mob inflicted damage by setting fire to a police van, two motorcycles, and five other vehicles. The facilities of the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and the Station House Officer (SHO) also suffered damages.
