Maryam approves first-ever Crime Control Department

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved the establishment of the province’s first Crime Control Department (CCD) to curb organised crime and ensure the safety of people’s lives and property.

Chairing a special meeting on Wednesday, the chief minister was briefed that the CCD will focus on tackling seven major organised crimes. The department will leverage modern technology to combat criminal activities effectively.

As per the CM’s directive, the CCD will be equipped with drone surveillance technology. In the event of a crime, surveillance drones will reach the scene within five minutes and begin monitoring. The department will take immediate action in cases of murder and rape to apprehend the culprits swiftly.

The CCD will also work to eliminate shooter mafias operating in different areas of the province while actively targeting organised land grabbers and gangster rackets. Immediate action will be taken against crimes such as dacoity, robbery, rape, murder, organised theft, and land grabbing. Additionally, the CCD will manage a comprehensive database of crimes and criminals across Punjab.

The chief minister approved key appointments within the CCD. The department will be headed by an additional inspector general of police (AIG), supported by three DIGs, an SSP, an SP at each divisional headquarter and a DSP in every district. The CCD will comprise 4,258 officers and personnel, with 2,258 officers and personnel being transferred from the Punjab police immediately.

“The Crime Control Department will significantly reduce the crime rate in Punjab,” she said. “Its establishment should instill fear in criminals.”

Meanwhile, a self-immolation incident occurred in front of the Lahore High Court (LHC), prompting Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to order the provision of the best possible medical treatment for the victim, Muhammad Asif.

According to reports, on February 25 at around 11am, Muhammad Asif, son of Muhammad Aslam and a resident of Kot Muhammad Hussain, Khanewal, doused himself in petrol and set himself on fire in front of Justice Shujaat Ali Khan.

Rescue 1122 personnel arrived promptly and shifted him to Mayo Hospital, Lahore. An initial medical examination revealed that 30 to 40 percent of his body had suffered burns.