Riot Force being prepared to handle protests, unrest

LAHORE:The Punjab government has begun mobilising a specialised Riot Management Force (RMF) to handle protests and unrest across the province.

According to official directives, 2,475 newly-recruited constables who recently completed basic training will now undergo an intensive seven-week specialised course focused on crowd control techniques. The training programme included 42 different drills designed to prepare officers for managing violent demonstrations while minimising excessive force.

Authorities have established strict physical criteria for the force, requiring male constables to be at least 5 feet 8 inches tall and female constables 5 feet 4 inches, with mandatory physical fitness and mental resilience standards. All selected personnel must report to training centres by May 25 to begin the programme. Once trained, the RMF will deploy teams of at least 200 officers in each district to support local police during protests and maintain public order.

DIG Asad Sarfraz emphasised that the force is being equipped to handle various challenging scenarios through disciplined, professional methods. The initiative included provisions for necessary vehicles, equipment and logistical support to ensure operational readiness.