LAHORE: The Punjab police claimed on Saturday to have arrested 553 people in 416 cases of violations during a crackdown on New Year night.

As many as 141 people were arrested for one wheeling, 159 for aerial firing, 86 for fireworks and 167 for drugs cases. The crackdown on law violators was launched on New Year night and legal action was taken against hundreds of violators in all districts.

Police cracked down on aerial firing, one wheeling, drinking and use of incendiary substances and registered 416 cases and arrested 553.

The Punjab Police spokesperson said 44 people were arrested for fireworks and 49 for alcohol and drug use in Lahore. He said 106 cases were registered against those involved in aerial firing and 110 people were arrested. Police officers and personnel from all over Punjab including Lahore were on duty on the highways throughout the night while additional personnel were deployed for smooth flow of traffic and protection of families, he said.

CHINIOT: District Police Officer Bilal Iftikhar said police made arrangements to control law and order and 300 officials were deputed at important places and recreational spots.

A team of the city police arrested Asadullah at Mohallah Garha for making fireworks on road and endangering the lives of citizens. He was booked under section 285 and 286 of PPC. The Rajoa police arrested Amir Mukhtar with 22 litre liquor.

The vigilance cell of Langrana police arrested Qamar with 27 litre liquor while Abid was arrested for aerial firing and displaying arms.The Langrana police also arrested Ikram for aerial firing and display of arms.

BAHAWALPUR: The Yazman Saddar police registered the first FIR No 1/2022 of the year under arms act against Rizwan and arrested him.

The Dhinote police in Lodhran registered a case under arms act against Ahsan and arrested him.

Meanwhile, DPO’s PRO Jam Sajid said around 1,000 policemen were deployed at more than 62 pickets for controlling the crowds and preventing people from rowdyism, speeding and wheelies. They impounded motorcycles and arrested Saghir, Rizwan, Aamir and Sarfraz for doing a wheelie, he said.

Published in Dawn, January 2nd, 2022