LAHORE: CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has given police officers four weeks to improve the law and order situation across the province. She warned that officers could face dismissal if conditions do not improve.
The chief minister expressed particular concern about crimes against women and children. She directed police officials to strengthen security measures and improve their response to serious crimes.
The instructions were issued during a special meeting on law and order. District Police Officers (DPOs) and Regional Police Officers (RPOs) attended the meeting through video link.
Officials provided detailed briefings on security conditions across different districts and divisions. The Punjab Inspector General of Police also briefed the meeting on major crimes, including the recent incident in Multan.
CM Punjab Orders Action Against Crime and Corruption
CM Punjab expressed concern over the law and order situation in Rawalpindi Division. She instructed police officers to increase efforts against serious crimes, illegal firearms and corruption within the department.
Maryam Nawaz also ordered strict enforcement of restrictions on camera-equipped glasses and other surveillance devices. Police were directed to recover illegal weapons and introduce preventive measures against their unlawful possession.
She also expressed dissatisfaction with traffic management across the province. The chief minister instructed authorities to take action against overspeeding and improve road safety.
Additionally, she called for an intensified campaign against corruption within the police department. Officials were directed to take strict action against personnel involved in corrupt practices.
Police Directed to Improve Patrolling and Crime Prevention
The chief minister ordered police to prevent wheat smuggling across Punjab. She particularly highlighted districts located along provincial borders.
All RPOs were instructed to hold weekly meetings to review different categories of crime. They must also submit performance reports concerning the relevant DPOs.
CM Punjab directed police departments to ensure visible patrolling throughout the province. The measures aim to strengthen law enforcement and discourage criminal activities.
She also ordered the police to identify crime hotspots and dismantle criminal networks. Authorities were directed to intensify operations against narcotics and other illegal activities.
In Lahore, the chief minister instructed the Dolphin Force to improve its patrolling operations. She also ordered the provision of motorcycles and other necessary facilities to support the force.
Maryam Nawaz further directed police officers to personally visit organisers of the Tableeghi Ijtima. The move was intended to address security arrangements for the gathering.
Support Announced for Families of Martyred Police Officers
The chief minister praised the RMC police force for its performance during preparations for a proposed sit-in. She also paid tribute to police personnel who lost their lives while performing their duties.
She directed authorities to provide lifetime salaries and financial packages to the families of martyred police officers.
CM Punjab also called for continued training and capacity-building of the specialised RMC police force. The force is expected to improve its ability to manage crowds and maintain public order.
She stated that hooliganism would not be tolerated in Punjab. Police were instructed to take action against individuals involved in such activities.
Punjab Reports Decline in Overall Crime Rate
During the meeting, officials reported that the overall crime rate in Punjab had continued to decline. Several districts and regions recorded reductions in reported criminal activity.
According to the briefing, Lahore recorded a 41% decrease in crime. The Dera Ghazi Khan region also reported a 16% decline.
The chief minister directed police officials to maintain their efforts and improve performance further. The four-week deadline places particular emphasis on protecting women and children, controlling serious crimes and addressing corruption.
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Police performance will be reviewed through regular meetings and reports submitted by regional officers. Authorities are expected to implement the directives across districts and divisions throughout Punjab.
