LHC Grants Punjab IGP More Time in Woman’s Recovery Case Linked to ‘Jinn Abduction’ Claim

Lahore: The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Tuesday heard the case of a woman allegedly abducted six years ago, with her family claiming she was taken away by *jinns*. Chief Justice Aalia Neelum granted Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar more time to ensure her recovery and adjourned proceedings until September 19.

During the hearing, Chief Justice Neelum expressed astonishment at the family’s unusual stance, remarking that it was strange to claim that a missing daughter had been taken by supernatural beings. The court questioned why the police had delayed action and criticized the investigation report submitted by Lahore CCPO Bilal Siddique Kamyana, calling it insufficient and dismissing it.

The Chief Justice further noted that investigations should begin at the family level, and questioned the absence of proper legal procedures such as time-stamped documentation, newspaper advertisements, or widespread awareness campaigns about the missing woman.

Punjab IGP Dr. Usman Anwar appeared in court and assured that efforts were underway. He said teams were searching *dar-ul-amans* (shelter homes), hospitals, and shrines, while also using Safe City cameras, DNA profiling, and NADRA data. Information had also been shared on social media.

Meanwhile, the petitioner maintained that the woman, Fouzia Bibi, was taken away by *jinns* over six years ago, while a formal case had been registered at Kahna police station against her husband and mother-in-law for alleged abduction.

The court also questioned why, if jinns were involved, the woman’s two children were not taken as well.