LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has decided to transform the Crime Control Department (CCD) into a premier investigation agency.
The decision was taken in view of the department’s performance in curbing crime and the positive public response to its operations. It was decided that the scope of the CCD would be expanded and it would be developed on the lines of the world’s five leading crime control agencies. The chief minister directed that the CCD be equipped with modern forensic capabilities, advanced investigative skills, modern technology, artificial intelligence-based software, state-of-the-art intelligence surveillance systems and modern machinery and equipment to make it one of the most advanced law enforcement institution in Pakistan. The department will be provided with modern tools for tracking and monitoring criminals.
The CM also approved the establishment of a fully equipped CCD Headquarters with modern facilities. It was decided that CCD offices, police stations and residential facilities would be established in every division, district and tehsil of Punjab. The chief minister approved a province-wide campaign against illegal weapons after Eidul Fitr.
According to official figures, the measures taken by the CCD have led to a significant decline in crime across Punjab. Officials said incidents of robbery have declined by 77 per cent compared to last year, while cases of mobile phone and bag snatching have decreased by 49 per cent. Vehicle theft has dropped by 17 per cent, attempted murder by 31 per cent, and kidnapping for ransom by 45 per cent.
The chief minister approved the establishment of a modern research centre within the CCD dedicated to developing new strategies for crime control. She assigned the department the task of taking strict action against perpetrators of acid attacks on women.
Message: Maryam Nawaz has said no society can achieve real progress without the meaningful participation of women. In her message on the International Day of Women Judges, she emphasised that there was a need for greater representation of women in the field of justice. She noted that women judges played a vital role in strengthening the credibility and legitimacy of courts.
Appreciating the exemplary role of women judges in the judiciary, the chief minister said their contribution has significantly enhanced the judicial system and helped promote a more balanced approach to justice. She described the appointment of a woman chief justice at the Lahore High Court as an important milestone and welcomed the growing participation of women at all levels of the judiciary.
The chief minister said the perspectives and experiences brought by women judges were strengthening the judicial system and improving the quality of justice delivery. Greater inclusion of women in the judicial system would enhance fairness in the administration of justice.
