For the first time, women cycle squads have been deployed in busy markets to prevent street crimes as shopping activity surges in the final 10 days of Ramadan. Police have identified 92 crime hotspots and deployed 1,000 male officers alongside female personnel to enhance security.
The decision comes as large crowds, particularly families, flock to shopping centers and commercial areas ahead of Eid, making them potential targets for criminals, including those preying on ATM users.
According to officials, special security measures have been introduced to protect female shoppers. In a pioneering move, female officers and cycle squads—comprising both male and female personnel in plainclothes—have been stationed at key locations to address harassment incidents. Strict legal action will be taken against anyone found harassing or misbehaving with women.
Lahore police have rolled out an integrated security plan to ensure public safety amid the bustling shopping season. More than 4,000 officers have been deployed citywide, including dedicated patrol teams, plainclothes personnel, and specialized monitoring units.
Authorities have also tightened surveillance on repeat offenders and criminal elements. Additional police forces have been stationed at 65 high-traffic shopping areas, with increased patrolling by undercover officers to keep a discreet watch on suspicious activities.
A total of 226 checkpoints have been set up at sensitive locations to prevent any untoward incidents. Bank operating hours have been synchronized with enhanced patrol schedules to deter robberies and snatchings, while mobile police teams now actively monitor banks, markets, and bazaars. Advanced surveillance technology, including night vision binoculars and drone cameras, is being used for nighttime monitoring.
Lahore Operations DIG Faisal Kamran detailed the extensive security deployment, which includes six SPs, 22 sub-divisional officers, 83 SHOs, 473 senior personnel, 3,367 constables, and 34 female officers. Patrolling has been intensified on key routes and shopping hubs through the Elite Force, Dolphin Squad, and police response units.
He further noted that more than 90 hotspots have been identified across the city’s six divisions, where over 1,000 officers have been deployed. Additionally, 55 key areas have been marked for checkpoints and enhanced monitoring to crack down on illegal motorcycle stunts (wheelie).
With increasing public activity ahead of Eid, divisional SPs have been instructed to ensure a peaceful and secure environment, particularly for families. The police strategy integrates technology-driven monitoring and proactive deployment to maintain law and order.
“We urge citizens to report any suspicious activity or criminal behavior immediately by calling Police Helpline 15,” DIG Kamran emphasized.
