LAHORE - Punjab Police claimed on Friday to have arrested 59 suspects and recovered 168 stolen animals during the past seven days across the province. According to police, the recovered livestock includes 23 cows, 124 goats and 21 other animals, all of which have been returned to their rightful owners. As part of the security plan, 4,000 police officers and personnel have been deployed across 230 cattle markets in Punjab, with 1,000 officials specifically assigned to guard 11 markets in Lahore alone. Special police checkpoints have been set up around these markets throughout the province. Additionally, 284 patrolling teams — including personnel from the Dolphin Squad and the Police Response Unit — are actively monitoring the surroundings. “We are fully committed to ensuring the safety of people involved in the buying and selling of sacrificial animals,” said Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar. The IGP directed the police officials deployed at cattle markets to remain vigilant and continue taking strong action against fraudsters and thieves. He emphasised that no unauthorised cattle markets would be allowed to operate and directed that action be taken against illegal markets and sale points.
(The Nation)
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