The City Police Officer (CPO) of Gujranwala has launched a strict crackdown against “black sheep” within the department, resulting in the arrest of five police officers and officials for allegedly maintaining links with a notorious drug dealer, facilitating narcotics trade, and leaking official information.

Police sources said the arrested officials were accused of backing Sajid alias Sajo Khan, a notorious drug trafficker who was reportedly killed in a police encounter earlier.

Action against the officers was initiated after forensic analysis of the deceased suspect’s mobile phone and other evidence allegedly revealed their involvement in providing departmental information and aiding drug-related activities.

A police spokesperson confirmed that the arrested personnel include Sub-Inspector Shamim Ahmed, Assistant Sub-Inspector Muhammad Asif, and constables Imran, Shahid Adnan and Yaseen.

Cases have been registered against them at Cantt, Ahmad Nagar, Gakhar Mandi, and Sadr Wazirabad police stations.

The CPO also released photographs of the arrested officials.

Police claimed to have recovered significant quantities of narcotics from the accused. Cantt police arrested Sub-Inspector Shamim Ahmed and recovered 1,600 grams of hashish, while Ahmad Nagar police detained ASI Muhammad Asif and seized 1,860 grams of hashish. Similarly, Sadr Wazirabad police arrested Constable Shahid Adnan and recovered 2,760 grams of hashish, while Gakhar Mandi police apprehended Constable Imran Sahi with 2,280 grams of hashish.

Another 2,520 grams of hashish were allegedly recovered from Constable Yaseen by Sadr Wazirabad police.

Earlier, the CPO had dismissed 29 officers and personnel from service on charges of corruption, misconduct, and links with drug dealers.