Punjab police to deploy over 25,000 officers for New Year’s night

Punjab Police have finalised a comprehensive security plan to maintain law and order across the province, including Lahore, on the eve of New Year’s night, 24NewsHD TV Channel reported on Sunday.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab Dr Usman Anwar has directed that security remain on high alert throughout the province and instructed all field formations to stay fully vigilant.

According to the IGP, more than 25,000 police officers and personnel will be deployed across Punjab on New Year’s night, with over 5,000 officers stationed in Lahore alone. The deployed force includes 419 inspectors, 1,267 sub-inspectors, 2,189 assistant sub-inspectors, 1,408 head constables, and 16,977 constables.

Dr Anwar said that all activities across Lahore and other cities would be closely monitored through CCTV cameras. Police have been instructed to maintain a special watch on anti-state elements, suspicious individuals, and those involved in any violations of the law. He also stressed that one-wheeling, aerial firing, and public hooliganism would be strictly prohibited on New Year’s night.

The IGP warned that immediate action would be taken against miscreants harassing women or other citizens, and offenders would be taken into custody. He also ordered the implementation of coordinated and effective traffic management arrangements. Patrols by the Dolphin Squad, PERU, Elite Force, and Punjab Highway Patrol will be intensified, while search and sweep operations will continue in Lahore and other cities across the province.

Dr Anwar further stated that pre-emptive surety bonds would be obtained from individuals previously booked for one-wheeling and aerial firing last year. The Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Lahore, Regional Police Officers (RPOs), and District Police Officers (DPOs) have been directed to personally supervise security arrangements in their respective jurisdictions.

Punjab Police have urged citizens to immediately report any suspicious activity, one-wheeling, or aerial firing to helpline 15 to ensure timely action.