LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched Pakistan’s first-ever dedicated Riot Management Police Force, a significant step towards improving crowd control and law enforcement in the province. This new force is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of citizens, government infrastructure, and public property during times of unrest. The initiative highlights the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order in volatile situations.
The Riot Management Police Force has been established within the framework of Punjab Police, with a focus on professionalism and agility. The officers in this force have undergone a rigorous eight-week training program at the Police Training Center Farooqabad. The training, designed by experts from Turkiye and other developed nations, follows international manuals and prepares personnel to handle all types of crowd-related situations, including violent protests.
The first phase of the force consists of 5,000 trained personnel, with 3,000 officers already ready for deployment. These officers will be stationed at regional headquarters across Punjab, with each region receiving a team of 250 officers. Each team is supported by specialized sub-units such as First Aid, Drone Surveillance, Crowd Control, and Tactical Response, all equipped with the latest crowd management and safety gear.
During the passing-out ceremony, officers showcased their crowd-control skills by demonstrating effective techniques to manage volatile protests. The force aims not only to neutralize threats but also to engage with protesters proactively to avoid damage to public or private property. CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of this new force in de-escalating tension and preventing chaos during times of unrest.
Speaking about the force, Maryam Nawaz said, “The establishment of this police force brings a new dimension to modern governance.” She explained that by controlling crowds safely and efficiently, the police force would help prevent violence and minimize damage to property. The CM also pointed out that such proactive measures would protect Pakistan’s global reputation while ensuring peace within the country.
The Riot Management Police is designed to protect citizens while upholding law and order in the face of growing unrest. With specialized teams and modern training, this initiative is a crucial step in building a more organized, responsive, and professional law enforcement system in Punjab.