Khanewal, Pakistan (TNS)– Under the decisive leadership of District Police Officer (DPO) Ismail Khark and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Khalid Javed Joyia, Khanewal has witnessed an unprecedented crackdown on crime and a remarkable restoration of law and order across the district.
DPO Ismail Khark immediately implemented a transparent investigation system across all police stations, resulting in a 22% increase in case registrations and a 45% improvement in public service delivery. An online record system for all cases was established, and the Police Service Center provided daily assistance to over 200 citizens. A zero-tolerance policy was enforced against corrupt officers and those with links to criminal elements.
As part of anti-corruption measures, Sub-Inspectors Abid Sial, Shahzaib, and Ashfaq Ahmed were dismissed, Sub-Inspector Farukh Shah was reinstated, Assistant Sub-Inspector Samar Abbas was promoted to Head Constable, and several constables were suspended pending inquiry. Citizens facing obstruction in justice or relief for criminals found no place within the department.
DSP Khalid Javed Joyia was assigned oversight of the most sensitive and high-profile police circles. His investigation style combines legal precision, professional expertise, and psychological analysis. Through advanced forensic methods, DNA sampling, evidence chain preservation, and Criminal Behavior Workshops, officers received specialized training. In 27 murder cases, a 96% trace ratio was achieved, while 31 gangs were dismantled in 41 robbery and dacoity cases. Cases of crimes against women and children saw swift arrests, and trial durations were reduced to an average of less than 48 days.
During operations, a total of 171 cases were registered, including 47 illegal arms cases, 64 drug-related cases, 59 alcohol-related cases, and 1 gambling case. Confiscated items included 2 rifles, 2 shotguns, 40 pistols, 3 revolvers, 115.289 kg of cannabis, 3.398 kg of heroin, 94 grams of ice, and 947 liters of alcohol. Seven inter-district gangs were apprehended, recovering PKR 32,24,300 in cash and various valuables. A total of 62 Category A and 190 Category B proclaimed offenders were brought to justice.
Crime analysis shows a reduction of 26% in murder and attempted murder, 30% in robbery and dacoity, 8% in drug trafficking, 34% in crimes against women, 22% in theft and burglary, and 3% in traffic accidents, resulting in an overall 21% decline in the crime index.
All FIRs are now registered through the NADRA-linked portal, reducing false cases by 17%. A 24/7 Command and Monitoring Room, equipped with 167 cameras, monitors live data. Over 9,000 women have received legal guidance, and 110 disputes were amicably resolved through police-public committees.
Notable criminal networks dismantled include Manoo Gang, Sadiq Rahi Gang, and Shakir Kothia Network. In cases of agricultural machinery theft, 11 suspects were arrested, recovering property worth PKR 5.4 million. Key members of inter-district dacoit groups were apprehended through joint operations in Multan, Khanewal, and Bahawalpur. A total of 18 kg of ice and crystal meth were seized, with DSP Khalid Javed Joyia personally leading the operations.
Through the Police Property Return Initiative, recovered property, motorcycles, and cash worth PKR 22 crore were returned to citizens, reinforcing public trust and strengthening police-community relations.
According to previous intelligence reports, the rising crime rate in Khanewal from 2019–2023 was largely driven by drug networks, illegal firearms, and political influence. Current reforms have effectively addressed these root causes. Timely submission of challans increased from 62% to 83%, while convicted prisoners rose from 47 to 89. Delays in framing charges before the session court were limited to 12%, 9% below the provincial average.
Community engagement in schools, madrassas, and market unions increased, with educational workshops and awareness programs on crime prevention, women’s safety, child protection, and drug hazards.
Khanewal Police’s performance in 2024–25 demonstrates that honest leadership, scientific investigation, and consistent supervision can significantly reduce crime. The district now ranks among the three safest in Punjab. The Khanewal Police model has been recommended for provincial replication and inclusion as a pilot project under the Police Reforms Act 2025. DSP Khalid Javed Joyia is recommended for the Tamgha-e-Husn-e-Karkardagi award.
Today, Khanewal is a district known for law and order, not crime, where the police are not just uniformed officials but a symbol of public trust. This achievement is a story of dedication, sacrifice, and relentless effort, written day and night in every police station. The department, alongside Inspector General Punjab Muhammad Kamran Khan, is urged to formally recognize these exemplary officers with awards
