Lahore: As part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s initiative for a safer Punjab, police operations across the province have resulted in the arrest of more than 184,000 criminals this year, targeting both high-profile offenders and habitual lawbreakers.
According to Punjab Police, the crackdown has led to the apprehension of 100,896 proclaimed offenders involved in various criminal activities. Among the arrested, 17,704 are categorized as the most dangerous (Category A), and 83,192 as significant but less immediate threats (Category B). Additionally, over 55,000 court absconders, including 5,021 of Category A and 51,778 of Category B, have been detained. Police efforts have also netted more than 26,000 habitual offenders, with 11,397 in Category A and 14,957 in Category B. Moreover, 84 proclaimed offenders and fugitives wanted for serious crimes were extradited back to Pakistan from abroad.
The ongoing operations in Lahore alone have seen over 57,000 criminals arrested, including 21,393 proclaimed offenders, 25,801 court absconders, and 11,240 habitual offenders. IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar has commended the police teams for their effectiveness and ordered an intensification of the crackdown. He stressed the importance of swift and effective investigations to ensure timely judicial proceedings and appropriate sentencing. The regional and district police officers have been directed to personally oversee these targeted operations to maintain pressure on criminal elements throughout the province.