Lahore: In alignment with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision for a safer Punjab, the provincial police force has arrested over 150,000 criminals involved in various crimes across the region. This significant law enforcement surge targets offenders linked to a wide range of criminal activities, marking a major stride in the government’s effort to enhance public safety.

According to Punjab Police announcement issued on 07 September 2024, the arrests this year include more than 91,000 proclaimed offenders in serious crimes, with 14,513 classified as Category A offenders and 76,866 as Category B. The crackdown also led to the capture of approximately 49,000 judicial absconders, including 3,718 Category A and 45,272 Category B absconders, as well as 23,246 habitual offenders, comprising 9,914 Category A and 13,332 Category B criminals. Additionally, 69 wanted criminals were extradited from abroad to face charges in Pakistan.

IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar lauded the police teams for their diligence and success, urging an intensification of efforts to ensure rapid case resolutions and appropriate sentencing for offenders. He also instructed Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs) to take a hands-on approach in overseeing continued operations against high-profile criminals.