By Qasim Ali
LAHORE, : Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has decided to transform the Crime Control Department (CCD) into a premier investigation agency in view of its effective performance in curbing crime and the positive public response to its operations.Chairing a meeting here on Tuesday, the CM decided to further expand the scope of the CCD and develop the department along the lines of the world’s leading crime control agencies.The chief minister directed that the CCD be equipped with modern forensic capabilities, advanced investigative techniques, and the latest technology. She said the department would be provided with artificial intelligence-based software, state-of-the-art intelligence and surveillance systems, and modern machinery and equipment to make it one of the most advanced law enforcement institutions in the country. The department will also be equipped with modern tools for tracking and monitoring criminals.CM Maryam Nawaz also approved the establishment of a fully equipped CCD headquarters with modern facilities. It was further decided that CCD offices, police stations and residential facilities would be established in every division, district and tehsil of Punjab to strengthen the department’s operational capacity.The chief minister also approved launching a province-wide campaign against illegal weapons after Eid-ul-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 decreased by 77 per cent compared to last year, while mobile phone and bag snatching cases have declined 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.
