Lahore: In a significant move to bolster community relations, Punjab Police, under the leadership of Inspector General Dr. Usman Anwar, has launched a new initiative to leverage mosques for community policing. This strategy aims to resolve citizens’ issues more effectively by directly engaging with them at a local level.

According to Punjab Police announcement issued on 27 September 2024, this initiative involves senior officers, including Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs), visiting local mosques every Friday. Following the prayers, these officers engage with the community to listen to their concerns and provide on-the-spot resolutions. Dr. Usman Anwar stressed that mosques, as per Islamic teachings, are pivotal in fostering societal reform and ensuring peace and justice. He directed the officers to utilize these religious sites to enhance public cooperation and trust, thereby strengthening community policing.

This approach not only underscores the importance of mosques in societal development but also promotes them as centers for civic engagement. The initiative is part of a broader effort by Punjab Police to make their services more accessible and responsive to the public’s needs. By addressing grievances directly and promptly, the police aim to reinforce a cooperative atmosphere that is crucial for effective law enforcement and community relations.