By Saleem Mubarak
True security means safety with respect — however, the Gulberg police of Faisalabad seem to think otherwise. The recent Faisalabad police hostel raid has sparked outrage among residents, especially female students living in private hostels.
On Friday midnight, the police launched a ‘search operation’, terrorizing the residents of Dhobi Ghat, particularly female students residing in private hostels.
Aysha, a resident of one of the private hostels, talking to The Grand Lines said that the midnight police operation at women’s hostels in the Gulberg vicinity was unwise.
She said the policemen involved in the so-called operation claimed it was part of a security sweep ahead of the South African cricket team’s visit. To us, she said, it was nothing but midnight harassment and intimidation.
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Fear and panic inside women’s hostels
She recalled that around midnight, they heard loud knocks and shouting outside the hostel. The situation panicked many students, particularly those who were asleep. The policemen allegedly banged on the hostel door as if they were in a hurry to enter, she said.
“Neither any notice was given to the hostel administration nor to the residents. The policemen said they needed to check rooms– for reasons best known to them.”
The sudden appearance of the police outside the hostel–located just a few meters from the Gulberg police station– terrified the residents, many of whom started to cry, she added.
“This may have been called a security operation, but the way it was conducted made us feel like criminals. It could have been planned in a way that protected the respect of citizens instead of terrorizing them,” she said.
Public reaction to Gulberg police actions
Naeem Ahmed, a resident of Dhobi Ghat, said that sports activities around the world are a boon as they bring joy, unity, entertainment, and economic opportunities to the public; however, in Pakistan, the police often turn these events into a bane for the people.
Now, instead of allowing people to enjoy a cricket match peacefully, the Faisalabad police, in the name of security, will conduct random searches, block roads and disturb residents — turning a happy occasion into a stressful one.
Hostel warden criticizes poor coordination
A warden of the hostel also criticized the police’s approach, saying that it seemed as if the policemen were intentionally bringing a bad name to the department by launching such ill-conceived operations.
He said that if they had informed the hostel managers beforehand, the police could have conducted the operation more effectively.
Even though the police didn’t harm anyone, he said the timing and method of the Gulberg police were completely wrong. Their approach created fear and confusion among the residents.
After being informed about the incident, he said, many parents called him the next morning, worried about their daughters’ safety. They questioned why the police had launched a search operation in the middle of the night, he said.
He said that most parents initially questioned the hostel’s standards, assuming there had been some wrongdoings that forced police to act. However, later they expressed confidence in the management once they were informed that the police conducted a general search operation in which all hostels were checked, he added.
“Now we have to work hard to repair our reputation, which was damaged by the ill-conceived search operation of the Gulberg police,” he claimed.
Faisalabad police hostel raid aimed at security data collection
A policeman from the Gulberg police told the media that the operation was launched only to check hostel data as part of security measures.
He said that during the operation, people were not disturbed, and hostel owners were asked to submit the details of their residents.
For privacy reasons, the names of the people have been changed.
Author Profile
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Saleem Mubarak is an investigative journalist, passionate writer, and keen observer of everyday life. His work combines humor, realism, and social insight to bring everyday stories to life with depth and clarity.
With a distinctive storytelling style, he brings ordinary moments to life through sharp wit and thoughtful commentary.
His writing often explores cultural trends, civic issues, and human behavior, engaging readers with both intellect and emotion.
Whether tackling serious topics or adding a touch of satire, Saleem’s words reflect his deep understanding of society and his commitment to meaningful expression.
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جب پولیس ہی بدمعاشی اور غنڈہ گردی پر اتر آۓ تو پھر عوام میں تحفظ کا احساس ختم ہو جاتا ہے
یہی پاکستان میں ہوا ہے اللہ ان قاتلوں اور غنڈوں کو عبرت کا نشان بناۓ آمین یارب العالمین برحمتک یا ارحم الراحمین