Police step up child protection measures across Rawalpindi
News Desk
Rawalpindi: Rawalpindi police have intensified child protection measures across the district following a reported case of violence against a nine-year-old madrassa student, with authorities pledging strict action against those responsible for abuse and child exploitation.
Under directives from City Police Officer (CPO) Hassan Mushtaq Sukhera, police have launched an awareness campaign aimed at preventing physical and sexual violence against children and stepped up action against individuals involved in child abuse and child labour.
Police officials said awareness activities would be held in different parts of the district to educate children, families and communities about protection from violence. The campaign is being carried out alongside enforcement measures targeting offences against minors.
According to a police spokesperson, several suspects allegedly linked to child sexual abuse cases in Rawalpindi were arrested over the past month and legal proceedings were initiated against them.
Police are also coordinating with the Child Protection Welfare Bureau (CPWB) to strengthen measures for the safety and welfare of children.
The renewed focus on child protection comes as police investigate the death of nine-year-old Muhammad Faizan, a madrassa student who allegedly died after being subjected to violence within the jurisdiction of Kallar Syedan Police Station.
The child, who was from Bhakkar, had reportedly been studying at a madrassa in Kallar Syedan for around four months. After his body was taken to Bhakkar, his family allegedly noticed marks of physical abuse while bathing the body and informed police.
Following the complaint, Kallar Syedan Police arranged a post-mortem examination, registered a case and detained three suspects for questioning. The investigation is continuing to determine the circumstances surrounding the child’s death and establish responsibility.
CPO Hassan Mushtaq Sukhera said violence against children, whether physical or sexual, would not be tolerated and directed officers to take indiscriminate legal action against those involved.
He said police would continue taking all necessary steps to strengthen child protection and ensure the safety of children across the district.
