ISLAMABAD: Four capital police officers were martyred in the line of duty while 24,387 suspects were arrested by the police in connection with various criminal activities during the outgoing year.
The capital police took several measures to improve the performance of the Operations Division, including improving the efficiency of police stations, increasing patrolling throughout the city, addressing public concerns and cracking down on criminals.
The Operations Division arrested 24,387 suspects and recovered cash and valuables worth over Rs 2.38 billion.
Additionally, 4,038 suspects involved in property crimes were arrested and stolen valuables worth Rs 1.75 billion were recovered.
Breakdown of arrests
Police arrested 1,531 suspects allegedly belonging to 657 criminal gangs, involved in car and bicycle theft and lifting activities, and recovered 429 vehicles and 763 motorcycles.
Additionally, 1,455 suspects involved in robbery and dacoity incidents were arrested and stolen valuables worth over Rs 248.4 million, including 31 cars and 118 motorcycles, were recovered from their possession.
Police claim to have recovered valuables worth Rs 2.3 billion
Police also arrested 1,980 suspects for possession of illegal weapons and confiscated 148 Kalashnikovs, 43 pistols, 1,674 pistols, 237 daggers and 18,834 cartridges. In addition, 4,681 fugitives and proclaimed criminals were also arrested.
Furthermore, the Special Investigation Units ensured effective investigation of serious crimes in 2024. As a result, relevant courts sentenced 27 defendants to death in 17 cases and 28 to life imprisonment in 21 cases.
In addition, police also arrested 1,811 suspects in connection with other criminal activities.
In addition, 219 search operations were carried out in various areas of the Federal Capital to establish public order and guarantee effective security throughout the city.
The Operations Division also provided security during 1,628 protests, religious gatherings and the arrival of foreign delegations.
In 2024, ‘Khidmat Markaz Police’ provided services such as character certificates, general police checks, vehicle checks, missing persons reports, registration of foreigners and other services to more than 160,000 citizens.
More than 300 ‘Khuli Katcheries’ (open courts) were also organised, in which more than 30,000 complaints were addressed.
Police reforms
The capital police also implemented several reforms and measures to modernize the Operations Division.
These included the establishment of model police stations and the renovation of existing police stations as per the ‘Special Initiative Police Station’ protocols.
In addition, investigation officers were appointed in all police stations to deal with complaints from the public 24/7. Special crime control teams were also formed under the supervision of SHO to target criminals.
A ‘Women’s Reconciliation Office’ was also established to address women’s issues, ensuring their representation in various sectors such as education, advocacy, journalism, business and government.
To improve the efficiency of patrols, the Ababeel Squad, City Watchers and Police Response Units were created, and young police officers were assigned to these squads.
A fleet of 206 additional motorcycles and smart cars were introduced to improve patrols.
In addition, police response units and smart mobile vehicles established joint checkpoints throughout the city.
All officers on patrol were equipped with full protective equipment and body cameras, and trackers were installed on all vehicles and motorcycles to ensure effective performance.
Night patrol officers were appointed at the police station level to ensure optimal performance. The Margalla Patrol Unit was also established to ensure the safety of citizens on Margalla Hill Trails.
Deputy Inspector General Syed Ali Raza said the main objective of the above efforts was to maintain transparency in the investigation process, ensure merit, prosecute criminals in accordance with the law and provide justice to citizens.
Many officers have been injured or martyred in the line of duty, especially during violent protests and attacks by criminal elements, the DIG said, adding that four officers embraced martyrdom and 29 officers were awarded the ‘Ghazi’ award. Additionally, five officers were awarded ‘Shujaat medals’ for their bravery and professionalism.
Published in Dawn, December 27, 2024