Punjab has intensified its crackdown on a banned extremist group by taking strict administrative and financial actions. The provincial government has implemented targeted measures to restore order, tighten oversight, and ensure public safety. These actions reflect a wider strategy to curb extremist financing and dismantle networks that threaten peace.
The provincial information minister explained that maintaining law and order is a core responsibility of the Punjab government. She noted that officials have acted decisively against the banned group. Police recovered various weapons, including tear gas shells and bulletproof jackets. These recoveries highlight the scale of the threat the group posed.
The government has also frozen assets worth Rs2.34 billion. In addition, authorities have blocked 52 bank accounts linked to the extremist network. These financial restrictions aim to cut all avenues of illicit funding. According to the minister, 90 financiers have been booked under charges linked to their support for the group. She added that 32 cases have been registered against people who used social media to spread threats. These digital threats were designed to create panic and disrupt public order.
The minister stressed that the group misused religion to cause unrest. She said the government is working to strengthen religious institutions and improve monitoring systems. Nearly 73,000 mosques have been geo-tagged across the province. She added that 84 percent of all mosques are now registered under government oversight. These steps ensure transparency and help prevent any misuse of religious platforms.
To support religious leaders, the chief minister has approved a modest allowance for imams. This initiative aims to acknowledge their contribution and reduce financial pressures on mosque administrations. It also encourages stability within communities.
The minister also commented on the status of Afghan migrants in Punjab. She said that the government has repatriated 6,220 Afghan nationals to their home country. Only a small number remain illegally within the province. Discussions will continue with the federal government to address the presence of Afghan migrants in other provinces as well.
On security, she noted that crime rates have dropped in several districts across Punjab. She said some independent assessments claim that Lahore now has lower crime levels than several major global cities. This reflects the impact of recent policing strategies and improved surveillance.
When asked about a recent article regarding a former prime minister, she said that any misrepresentation should be addressed through legal channels. She added that any political party has the right to pursue lawful action if it believes facts were distorted.
The minister reiterated that the government’s top priority is protecting citizens. She emphasized transparency, accountability, and responsible law enforcement as core principles guiding current policies.
