Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has given one week’s respite to the Inspector General of Police to take action against alleged corrupt officers in the police. She made it clear that officers with a reputation for corruption should not be posted as SHOs in police stations.
While chairing a meeting on law and order in Lahore, the Chief Minister said that the protection of lives and property of citizens is the first responsibility of the government. He directed the police to expedite practical steps to prevent crimes.
The meeting paid special attention to improving police accountability and the efficiency of police stations. Maryam Nawaz directed the IG Police to identify corrupt elements and complete action against them. He said that the reputation and performance of a police officer should be given importance in the appointment of his/her.
The Chief Minister also expressed concern over incidents of theft and burglary. He directed the police to increase operations to prevent such crimes. A special cleaning operation against crimes was also ordered in Sheikhupura.
The meeting decided to change the operational system of the Dolphin Police. Now the operational control of this force will be linked to the scope of the relevant police stations. According to the government, this move can help improve communication between the local police and the Dolphin Force.
An important target was also set for a modern surveillance system in the Punjab Police. The Chief Minister directed that all police personnel be equipped with body cameras by September 30. These cameras can help in preserving records of police operations and investigating complaints.
A comprehensive plan was also called for to prevent crimes against women and children. The Chief Minister directed to adopt a zero tolerance policy against those involved in such crimes. The move is aimed at preventing sensitive crimes and improving the protection of victims.
Approval was also given to install GPS devices and cameras in jail vans to secure the prisoner transfer system. Maryam Nawaz directed strict action against those responsible for prisoner escapes.
The meeting was also briefed on the overall crime situation in Punjab. According to the police, there was a 54 percent reduction in robberies in the province. Murders decreased by 35 percent, car snatching by 46 percent and motorcycle theft by 53 percent. These figures were presented by the police in the meeting.
However, Maryam Nawaz clarified that despite the overall reduction in crime, police officers in high-crime districts will have to answer. This policy has sought to directly link police performance at the district level with accountability.
