Punjab Constabulary shifts to riot control

LAHORE:

The Punjab Constabulary is set to be restructured into a specialised anti-riot force to enhance its response to protests and demonstrations. This decision aims to improve the effectiveness of managing civil unrest and ensuring law and order.

The Operations Branch of Punjab Police has formally requested the Inspector General (IG) of Punjab Police to reassign constabulary personnel to their core duties.

The move is part of a broader strategy to reinforce the force, with 20,000 personnel being reallocated to better manage law and order and handle emergency situations. Currently, approximately 4,000 constables are engaged in guard and VIP duties at sensitive locations, with about 20% of the total force dedicated to permanent security roles.

Under the new plan, these personnel will be redeployed to district police forces across the province, allowing the constabulary to focus more effectively on anti-riot operations.

All vacant constable positions across Punjab have now been filled, enabling the constabulary to shift its focus to specialised anti-riot duties. The force will be equipped with existing anti-riot gear, and plans are underway to acquire additional equipment to further enhance their capabilities.