Timely justice in cases of sexual abuse a ‘red line’ for police: IG

LAHORE: In order to review the progress in the investigation, challan submission and prosecution of cases involving sexual abuse and violence against women and children, murder, kidnapping and other heinous crimes a meeting was held which was chaired by Inspector General of Police Punjab Abdul Kareem.

IG Punjab said, timely justice in cases of sexual abuse and violence against women and children is the police’s red line. He directed police officers to pay special attention to the timely resolution of cases involving crimes against women and children.

He directed that the timely resolution of heinous crime cases, including murder and kidnapping, must be ensured. All DPOs were instructed to ensure that region-wise data on challans and proclaimed offenders from 2024 onwards is updated on PRMS by November 15. The concerned SDPOs and SHOs should be assigned targets to be completed within the stipulated timelines, while compliance reports should be obtained through scrutiny and inspection.

IG Punjab further directed DPOs to personally review FIRs registered in heinous crime cases and called for improving the role and performance of SDPOs and DSPs Legal. Investigation officers must brief the concerned DPOs about their cases before appearing in court and ensure that they attend court proceedings with complete preparation and all relevant records.

The meeting also discussed proposed measures and a future course of action to improve coordination between investigation officers and the prosecution. IG Punjab directed the RPOs to set targets for improving the investigation and challan submission mechanism.

IG Punjab made it clear that strict accountability would continue for those found involved in corruption, abuse of authority and violations of the code of conduct.

The meeting was attended by DIG Legal, DIG Welfare and Finance, DIG Investigation Punjab, AIG Legal and other concerned officers. Additional IG South Punjab, all RPOs, CPOs and DPOs participated in the meeting via video link.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026