Lahore: In a rigorous enforcement drive, Punjab Police has arrested 11,787 individuals this year for involvement in kite flying and the use of dangerous metallic strings, activities that are banned under the province’s Anti-Kite Flying Act. The crackdown, led by Inspector General of Police Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar, aims to mitigate the risks posed by these activities, which have been linked to several injuries and fatalities.
According to Punjab Police, the crackdown has been relentless across all districts, with a particular focus on Lahore, where 2,633 suspects have been apprehended and 2,570 cases registered. The police have seized over 500,000 kites and 34,000 metallic strings and reels during these operations. In Lahore alone, authorities confiscated 2,301 metallic strings and more than 50,000 kites from suspects.
IG Punjab has issued strict instructions to Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs) to enhance the crackdown’s effectiveness. He emphasized that those endangering human lives through the production, sale, or use of banned kite flying materials would face severe legal actions without leniency. Dr. Anwar also highlighted the role of the community, urging parents, educators, and civil society members to actively discourage the perilous sport and related businesses.