Lahore: In a sweeping initiative to curb serious criminal activity across Punjab, the provincial police force, under the direction of Inspector General Dr. Usman Anwar, has significantly ramped up efforts to dismantle criminal networks throughout the region. This aggressive campaign has led to the arrest of thousands and the recovery of stolen properties worth billions of rupees.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab announcement issued on 10 September 2024, the Punjab Police has achieved notable success in this mission throughout the year. Since the start of the campaign, 4,646 criminal gangs involved in serious offenses have been dismantled, leading to the arrest of 11,636 individuals. Moreover, stolen properties valued at approximately Rs. 7.61 billion have been seized and returned to their rightful owners. These recovered items include 1,303 vehicles, 19,431 motorcycles, 1,957 tolas of gold, 7,978 mobile phones, and 3,241 livestock.

The spokesperson for the Punjab Police further disclosed that over Rs. 4.79 billion in cash was recovered from criminals involved in various offenses. In Lahore alone, the crackdown led to the busting of 2,628 gangs and the arrest of 6,033 members. The operations in Lahore also resulted in the recovery of stolen properties worth over Rs. 4.31 billion.

IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar commended the police teams for their exceptional performance in targeting and dismantling dangerous gangs. He has issued directives for an intensified crackdown to completely eradicate organized crime across the province. Dr. Anwar emphasized the importance of bringing professional criminals, involved in severe crimes such as robbery, murder, and abduction, to justice. He also instructed the police teams to focus on eliminating crime in hotspot areas through effective planning and targeted operations, utilizing all available resources to ensure the safety and security of citizens.