Punjab Police pays tribute to Gujranwala martyrs on 34th martyrdom anniversary

• IGP Abdul Kareem says sacrifices of 1,700+ martyrs will never be forgotten, declaring welfare of martyrs’ families as top priority

• Province-wide Ramazan security plan put in motion, 32,000 mosques, 2,000 imambargahs, 500 minority sites secured

 LAHORE: Punjab Inspector General of Police Abdul Kareem paid rich tribute to police martyrs on the 34th anniversary of seven officers and officials who embraced martyrdom during an encounter with dacoits in Gujranwala, saying the memory of these great sons of the soil—who laid down their lives to protect citizens’ lives and property—will forever remain alive in the nation’s collective conscience.

The IG Police said Punjab Police stands as the custodian of more than 1,700 martyrs, adding that their eternal sacrifices will never be forgotten. He emphasized that every officer and official of Punjab Police continues to serve as a frontline force in safeguarding the country and the nation, and in the fight against crime and terrorism.

Reaffirming the department’s commitment, the IG Punjab said the best possible welfare of the families of police martyrs remains the foremost priority of Punjab Police, and that all available resources are being utilized to ensure the well-being and support of the martyrs’ families.

A Punjab Police spokesperson recalled that on this day in 1992, seven officers and officials of Punjab Police were martyred while performing their duties in Gujranwala. The martyrs included two Sub-Inspectors, one Head Constable, and four Constables. Those who embraced martyrdom were Sub-Inspectors Farooq Khan and Saif Ullah, Head Constable Khuda Dad, and Constables Muhammad Azam, Muhammad Afzal, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Muhammad Arshad.

Over 83,000 police officers deployed for Ramazan security

Meanwhile, on the directions of IG Punjab Abdul Kareem, Punjab Police has ensured comprehensive and strict security arrangements across the province on the occasion of the 1st of Ramazanul Mubarak. Sharing details, the Punjab Police spokesperson said all available resources are being mobilized to provide security to more than 32,000 mosques, over 2,000 imambargahs, and more than 500 minority places of worship across the province, including Lahore.

Under the security plan, more than 83,000 police officers, personnel, and community volunteers have been deployed at mosques, imambargahs, and other religious sites. In the provincial capital Lahore alone, more than 18,000 officers, personnel, and community volunteers are performing security duties at mosques, imambargahs, and markets.

The spokesperson said that enhanced checking at sensitive mosques and imambargahs is being carried out through walk-through gates and metal detectors, while search and sweep operations are also underway around religious and other important locations.

Inspector General of Police Punjab Abdul Kareem has directed the police to maintain a strict vigil on anti-state elements and further strengthen security at mosques, imambargahs, and all other key locations. He also appealed to religious scholars and spiritual leaders to promote interfaith harmony, brotherhood, and peace from the pulpits.

The IGP further instructed that during Sehri, Iftar, and Taraweeh timings, Dolphin Squad, PRU, and Elite Force teams should ensure effective patrolling around places of worship, while continuous monitoring of activities be maintained with the support of Safe City Authority cameras.

He directed Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs) to personally review security arrangements and remain in constant coordination with mosque administrators and peace committee members.

Additionally, lady police personnel have been deployed in bazaars and markets to protect women from harassment. The IG Punjab expressed confidence that, with the cooperation of citizens, Punjab Police will ensure the peaceful observance of Ramazan and the timely suppression of miscreant elements.