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Stages of Investigation under the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in Pakistan
An investigation is the initial phase of a criminal case, focused on verifying whether an offence has been committed and identifying the person(s) responsible. In Pakistan, the procedure is governed by the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1898, primarily Sections 154 to 173.
This article outlines the standard stages of criminal investigation.
🔹 1. Filing of FIR (First Information Report) – Section 154
The process begins when the police receive information about a cognizable offence. If the offence is serious (e.g., murder, robbery), the police are bound to register an FIR and initiate investigation.
🔹 2. Site Visit and Collection of Evidence – Section 157
The Investigation Officer (IO) visits the crime scene, collects evidence, and prepares a site inspection memo. Evidence may include:
Photographs
Fingerprints
Blood samples
Weapon recovery
CCTV footage
🔹 3. Examination of Witnesses – Section 161
The IO records statements of witnesses. These are not signed and do not have evidentiary value unless the witness testifies in court later.
🔹 4. Statement before Magistrate – Section 164
In some cases, key witnesses or the accused may record a confessional or witness statement before a Magistrate, which is admissible in court.
🔹 5. Arrest and Custody – Section 54 & 167
The police may arrest a suspect without a warrant in cognizable offences. After arrest:
Accused must be presented before a Magistrate within 24 hours
The court may grant physical remand (custody with police) or judicial remand (custody in jail)
🔹 6. Medical Examination
In offences involving violence, sexual assault, or injury, the police obtain a medico-legal report (MLR) from a government hospital.
🔹 7. Recovery and Forensics
Police may recover weapons, stolen property, or tools and send items for forensic analysis, such as:
Fingerprints
DNA
Ballistics
Digital data
🔹 8. Preparation of Challan (Final Report) – Section 173
Once investigation is complete, police submit a challan (charge sheet) to the Magistrate. This may be:
Complete Challan – with sufficient evidence
Incomplete Challan – if investigation is pending
Cancellation Report – if no offence is made out
The court takes cognizance upon receiving the challan.
🔹 9. Post-Investigation: Framing of Charges
After submission of challan, the trial begins with the framing of charges if a prima facie case exists. The court decides whether to proceed or discharge the accused.
✅ Key Points to Remember:
FIR is the basis of investigation, not proof of guilt
Arrest is not mandatory in every case
Confessions must be recorded before a Magistrate to be valid
Delay in investigation or defective investigation can weaken prosecution
The accused has the right to remain silent and seek bail during investigation
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal assistance specific to your situation, please consult a qualified lawyer at S.M. Zulkufil Haider & Co.
S.M. ZULKUFIL HAIDER & CO.
www.zulkufilhaiderandco.com