Stringent security protocols for police urged

The home department has issued a letter urging the inspector general (IG) of police for the implementation of stringent security protocols for officers stationed at sensitive locations.

The letter underscores the necessity of bolstering security arrangements for police personnel, particularly those stationed at high-risk checkpoints, during raids and security operations. The chief minister has emphasised the importance of ensuring that officers are equipped with full safety gear to mitigate potential threats, the letter quoted.

The police officials have been instructed to prioritise the protection of head, neck and chest by providing them adequate protective equipment.

The use of bulletproof vests and helmets is to be strictly enforced during sensitive operations and routine duties.

Additionally, all regional, city and district police officers (DPOs) across Punjab have been ordered to adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for their personnel's safety. The Punjab government has stressed that the chief minister's instructions must be followed without exception to ensure the safety and security of police officers across the region.

On August 22, at least 11 policemen were martyred and several others injured in a rocket attack by criminals in the Katcha area of Rahim Yar Khan. The assailants targeted police vehicles with rockets at the Machhka Camp 2, where officers were changing shifts.

The camp had been set up to curb the movement of bandits in the region. Around 25 heavily armed men had carried out the attack, destroying police vehicles and killing 11 policemen on the spot.

In response, a large contingent of police was dispatched to the scene, led by District Police Officer Imran.