LAHORE: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Thursday gave a 30-day deadline to the police high-ups to improve overall law and order in Punjab, particularly curbing crimes against women and children, warning that the officers failing to bring improvement will be removed.

She expressed concern over the law and order situation in Rawalpindi division in a meeting, attended by regional police officers (RPOs) and district police officers (DPOs) through video link.

Punjab inspector general of police (IGP) briefed the chief minister on the overall security situation across the province, including the killing of a boy in Multan and otherheinous crimes.

Ms Nawaz directed the police to ensure strict enforcement of the ban on camera-equipped smart glasses and other surveillance devices. She also ordered action against individuals possessing illegal weapons.

Expressing dissatisfaction with traffic management, she directed the police to ensure action against speeding vehicles.

She also ordered strict action against personnel involved in corrupt practices.

The chief minister directed the police to prevent wheat smuggling in districts, particularly areas along provincial borders.

She instructed the DPOs to hold weekly meetings to review all categories of crime and submit performance reports of the relevant RPOs.

The chief minister praised the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) police force for its effective performance during the proposed sit-in and paid tributes to the personnel who lost their lives while performing their duties.

She directed the provision of lifetime salaries and financial packages for the families of martyred police officers.

Ms Nawaz directed the police to ensure effective patrolling by Dolphin Force in Lahore and provide the force with motorcycles and other necessary facilities.

She ordered an intensified crackdown on narcotics and comprehensive measures to identify crime hotspots and dismantle criminal networks.

Published in Dawn, October 23rd, 2026