LAHORE: The city has seen a significant drop in crime rate for the fifth consecutive month, with serious crime dropping by 47% in November 2024 compared to the same month last year.
According to data collected by the Police Emergency Helpline 15, this reduction reflects the continued efforts of law enforcement agencies in a better strategy to combat criminal activities.
A detailed analysis of the data shows that there has been a significant reduction in various categories of crimes compared to November 2023. Robberies have dropped by 60 percent, while street crimes like theft have dropped by 62 percent. There was also a 45% reduction in muggings, 39% in motorcycle thefts and 37% in motorcycle thefts. A 25 percent reduction in other vehicle thefts was observed, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted policing.
Highlighting the department’s achievements, DIG Operations Faisal Kamran revealed that 443 suspects from 200 criminal gangs were arrested last month. Police recovered stolen goods worth Rs 91.5 million which included 467 motorcycles, 7 cars, 8 rickshaws, 293 mobile phones, gold and other valuables. Law enforcement agencies also seized a significant cache of weapons, including five Kalashnikov rifles, 17 rifles, 17 shotguns, 472 pistols, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. Efforts to capture fugitives yielded further results, with 1,806 ad hominem offenders and 909 judicial fugitives being detained.
In a strong anti-narcotics drive, police detained 821 suspects and recovered 785 kilograms of hashish, two kilograms of heroin, seven kilograms of methamphetamine (ice) and 5,051 liters of liquor. Social welfare efforts include the arrest of 376 people involved in illegal gambling, with gambling stakes worth Rs 1.2 million confiscated.
Additionally, several operations targeted begging and kite flying, ensuring compliance with the law. The Police Protection Center also addressed cases of domestic violence and harassment, resulting in 157 FIRs being registered and arrests of 41 accused in cases of sexual assault. The department reunited nine more missing children with their families, underscoring its commitment to public welfare.