LAHORE – In an effort to address the mounting spike in heinous crimes, the Lahore police have taken a proactive approach by introducing a new initiative: ‘Night Patrolling Officers.’ These officers will take charge of the night shift between 10pm and 8am at all 84 police stations across the city.
Recent crime analysis reports have revealed a disturbing trend, with approximately 40 percent of total heinous crimes occurring during the night. The reports also identified specific crime ‘hotspots’ within Lahore where a majority of these crimes take place.
To combat this alarming situation, the Lahore police will select new station house officers (SHOs) from a pool of over 100 police officials, most of whom hold the rank of sub-inspector. These officials have recently undergone a rigorous selection process, including interviews conducted by a panel of senior police officers led by Lahore Operations DIG Nasir Rizvi.
In the past few months, Lahore has witnessed a surge in heinous crimes such as house robberies, mobile phone snatching, and car and motorbike thefts. Recognizing the need for immediate action, the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) and Lahore Police joined forces in a successful joint operation. A four-member dacoit gang was apprehended near Sardar Wala Bagh, thanks to the vigilant efforts of the Safe Cities team. The suspects were found in possession of stolen motorcycles, weapons, and cash. The arrested individuals have been identified as Muhammad Kashif, Mohsin, Shehzad Ali, and Ali Raza. Legal proceedings are underway, with ongoing investigations.
ASP Sidra Khan stated that during the inquiry, the accused also confessed to multiple robbery and extortion incidents. This breakthrough serves as a testament to the determination of law enforcement agencies to bring criminals to justice.
By introducing ‘Night Patrolling Officers’ and conducting coordinated operations, the Lahore police and the PSCA are taking significant steps towards ensuring the safety and security of the citizens. These initiatives aim to tackle the rising tide of crime and create a peaceful environment within the provincial metropolis.
The appointment of dedicated officers for the night shift will provide a robust presence on the streets during the high-crime hours. It will not only act as a deterrent to potential criminals but also increase the sense of security among residents. Moreover, the joint operations between the Lahore Police and the PSCA reflect the effectiveness of collaboration between various law enforcement agencies.
As the Lahore police implement these new measures, the city’s residents are hopeful that the situation will improve. However, it is crucial that these efforts are sustained and continuously evaluated to ensure their long-term success.
The introduction of ‘Night Patrolling Officers’ marks a progressive approach in combating rising heinous crimes plaguing Lahore. With a renewed focus on keeping the streets safe during the night, law enforcement agencies are resolute in restoring peace and tranquility to the city.
