Lahore: The Government of Punjab has approved the recruitment of 1,000 new personnel in the Crime Control Department (CCD), marking a significant step to strengthen law enforcement and curb serious crime across the province.

The decision was finalized during a provincial cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, where officials also sanctioned Rs.491 million from the 2025–26 supplementary budget to fund the initiative.

The move comes as CCD faces a critical shortage of staff. Out of 7,486 sanctioned posts, more than half 3,582 positions remain vacant, affecting operational efficiency. Established in March 2025, the department has already reported notable progress, including a 55% reduction in robbery cases and a 45% drop in murder incidents.

However, the transfer of a large portion of police personnel to the newly formed “PERA” department limited the ability to reassign officers to CCD, prompting the need for fresh recruitment.

According to official documents, the hiring plan includes 8 SP General Executive officers, 3 SP Legal officers, 19 DSP General Executive, 10 DSP Legal, 51 inspectors, 141 sub-inspectors, 173 assistant sub-inspectors, 35 head constables, 100 driver constables, and 460 constables.

Security experts say the additional force will intensify operations against organized crime, especially in riverine and high-risk areas, while supporting ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal weapons and apprehend wanted criminals.