“ASP Sheherbano Faces Backlash Over Comments on Police Checkpoint Protocols”

Lahore: Pakistan’s prominent Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Sheherbano has come under fire for remarks made during a private TV podcast regarding police procedures at checkpoints. Her comments, which went viral on social media, led to a surge in emergency calls to the police helpline (15), causing operational disruptions and prompting disciplinary action from senior police officials.
According to sources, Sheherbano was summoned and reprimanded by senior police officers and the Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) following the public response to her statements.
In the podcast, ASP Sheherbano had stated that police officers at checkpoints have the authority to ask for a citizen’s ID card and verify their background through an internal application to check if they are wanted in any case. She clarified that if a person is clear, police cannot detain or search their vehicle without cause. She advised citizens who feel harassed at checkpoints to call the emergency helpline 15 instead of arguing with officers, stating, “If they misbehave, tell them you’ll call 15—they’ll back off. Don’t be rude to officers, just file your complaint properly.”
While her intent appeared to focus on educating the public about their rights and proper complaint channels, the comments led to a large number of people calling 15 unnecessarily, disrupting emergency services.
Senior police officials expressed concerns over the unintended consequences of her statements, emphasizing the need for caution and responsibility when public figures speak on sensitive operational matters.