Sahiwal crime rate jumps to 17%

CHICHAWATNI:

The Sahiwal police report revealed that 23,314 cases were registered during the year, marking an increase of 3,393 cases compared to 2023. However, the prosecution rate fell slightly, with 71% of cases prosecuted in 2024 compared to 76% in 2023.

The police registered 1,486 cases and arrested 1,510 individuals. Recoveries included 743kgs of cannabis, 172kgs of opium, 29kgs of heroin, 4.5kgs of ICE, 19,478 litres of alcohol, and the dismantling of 88 illicit distilleries.

The operations against illegal arms resulted in 996 cases and the arrest of 1,010 suspects, with recoveries including 814 pistols, 66 shotguns, 44 rifles, 10 Kalashnikovs, and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition.

Efforts to apprehend fugitives and habitual offenders saw the arrest of 462 Category A fugitives, 3,946 Category B fugitives, 2,108 court absconders, and 2,674 habitual criminals.

In property-related crimes, the police solved over 3,500 cases, recovering stolen assets worth Rs325.9 million. They also dismantled 43 gangs involved in robberies, livestock theft and dacoities, recovering an additional Rs43.1 million worth of stolen goods.

During the year, police encounters resulted in six criminals killed, five injured, and 20 arrested, while investigators solved 10 out of 12 blind murder cases using modern techniques.

Over 116,000 citizens benefited from services provided through various centres, including general verifications, character certificates, FIR copies, and learner licenses.

Special initiatives included support for women, transgender individuals and differently-abled citizens through the Police Protection Centre, which assisted over 3,900 individuals.