The Security and Emergency Services Division has taken measures to strengthen security arrangements for the transportation of under-trial prisoners (UTPs) and their appearance before courts.
Officials said the initiative, launched on the directives of DIG Security and Emergency Services Division Dr Maqsood Ahmed, includes the introduction of specially designed identification vests for female UTPs and provision of 50 new handcuffs for identified high-risk prisoners.
As part of the initiative, identification vests have been provided to female UTPs for use during transportation to and appearance before various courts. The measure is aimed at enabling police personnel to immediately distinguish them from members of the public within court premises.
Previously, female UTPs generally appeared before courts in civilian clothing, making it difficult for police personnel to distinguish them from members of the public, particularly in crowded court premises. Since female UTPs are generally not handcuffed during transportation and court appearances under applicable legal provisions, their identification posed an operational challenge.
Officials said the specially designed vests would help police personnel identify female UTPs more readily, facilitating vigilance, monitoring and security during court proceedings and their movement within court premises. The measure would also help reduce the risk of escape, impersonation and other untoward incidents while ensuring compliance with applicable legal provisions and human rights standards.
In addition, 50 new handcuffs have been provided for use with identified high-risk prisoners during their transportation to and from courts. Officials said the measure was aimed at strengthening security during the movement of such prisoners, preventing escape attempts and mitigating potential security risks. Their use would remain strictly subject to applicable law and prescribed procedures.
The Security and Emergency Services Division said it remained committed to improving court security, prisoner identification, safe custody and transportation, and the protection of judicial institutions, police personnel and the general public through lawful and effective security measures.
