Wanted man climbs palm tree in bid to escape arrest

DERA GHAZI KHAN: A proclaimed offender wanted in more than 20 criminal cases was arrested in Kot Chutta tehsil after climbing a palm tree in an attempt to escape police, according to officials.

Police said the suspect, identified as Kaleem Dumra, was seen in the livestock market area of Kot Chutta after they received a tip-off about his presence. When a police team moved in to detain him, he allegedly fled on a motorcycle, leading to a chase that continued into the limits of Choti Police Station.

According to police, the suspect eventually reached Basti Naseer near his home, where he called out to relatives and supporters before climbing a palm tree said to be around 60 feet high. Officials said he then refused to come down despite repeated efforts to persuade him to surrender.

Joint operation launched

As the standoff continued, Kot Chutta SHO Hamidullah Khulng repeatedly asked the suspect to give himself up, police said. Rescue 1122 was later called in to assist with the operation.

Rescue officials initially tried to reach the suspect with a ladder, but the height of the tree made that attempt unsuccessful. After making safety arrangements, police and Rescue 1122 personnel carried out a joint operation and secured the surrounding area.

Authorities then tied safety ropes around the tree and carefully cut its lower section, which allowed them to bring the suspect down safely without injury. Rescue officials administered first aid before handing him over to police custody.

Speaking to the media, SHO Hamidullah Khulng said the accused was wanted in several criminal cases and had climbed the tree because he feared arrest.