Investigating Officers Must Prioritize Merit Without Pressure: DPO Kasur

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan
KASUR: Newly appointed District Police Officer (DPO) Kasur Aftab Ahmed Phulwan has emphasized that investigating officers must strictly uphold merit and work without any external pressure or recommendations, while adopting a zero-tolerance policy against negligence within the police department.
He expressed these views during an introductory meeting with a delegation of the Working Journalist Group at Kasur Press Club, led by Sheikh Muhammad Hussain.
The DPO said that ending the culture of recommendations is among his top priorities. He stated that postings and appointments at police stations will be strictly based on merit to ensure timely and fair justice for the public.
He further warned that no leniency will be shown to drug dealers, adding that those who recommend such individuals should refrain from doing so, as such practices will not be tolerated.
Aftab Ahmed Phulwan added that since his own appointment was not based on recommendations, he is committed to completely eliminating the recommendation culture within the police department. He said strict action is being taken against drug traffickers, proclaimed offenders, and illegal arms holders to make the district crime-free.
He directed police officials to promptly address public complaints and stated that corrupt and negligent officers have no place in the department.
Appreciating the role of the media, the DPO said journalists are the “eyes and ears of society,” and cooperation between police and media can help eliminate social evils.
On the occasion, Sheikh Muhammad Hussain assured full support for the DPO’s reform agenda and his stance against the recommendation culture. The DPO also assured the delegation that legitimate issues of journalists would be resolved on a priority basis.