CRIMINAL JUSTICE: A STATICAL OVERVIEW

Custodial deaths are common in Pakistan. In custodial deaths autopsy becomes a necessary part of investigation. In this retrospective study, statistical overview was done to analyze the prevalence pattern of custodial related deaths, whose autopsies were conducted at three major medico legal centers of Karachi, Pakistan. (Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Civ il Hospital and Jinnah Hospital) There were 96 cases of custodial related deaths all were male except 3 females. Majority were in the age group of 22 to 42 years of age. Around 67% cases died due to unnatural cause i.e. Blunt trauma, Suicide/Hanging, Thro ttling, Intoxication, Electric Shock in which blunt trauma cases were in highest percentage (56%). 25% deaths were due to natural causes like Myocardial infarction (MI), Hepatitis, Tuberculosis (TB), Kidney failure and High grade fever. MI and TB were the major causes of natural death in custody. Sudden and unexpected death in custody is very common due to police torture and torture by other law enforcement agencies. Most of the time this is the allegation being put on the above mentions agencies by delay i n providing emergency care, is one of the commonest allegations by the relatives against these authorities. In this study we have analyzed the pattern of custodial deaths that has been brought to the mortuary for medico - legal autopsy. The data suggested th at proper care and health facilities should be provided to prisoners. All the prisoners should be checked for any contagious and/or infectious diseases before their transfer in lockups. The strict measures should be taken to reduce the morbidity and morta lity in the custody.