IN a shocking development, a report compiled by the Punjab Police has uncovered the involvement of 234 police officials in the narcotics trade. The report identifies these officials as either “sellers” or “facilitators” of drugs, implicating a wide range of ranks, from constables to inspectors, in the trade of substances such as hashish, heroin, and methamphetamine (commonly known as ice). Such complicity within the police force undermines efforts to combat drug peddling, a scourge that successive governments have struggled to eliminate, and that has devastated countless lives due to addiction. This systemic corruption is most pronounced in Faisalabad, where 58 officials were found involved, followed by 40 in Bahawalpur and 30 in Lahore. The Punjab Police’s internal surveillance branch has initiated a crucial step towards transparency and reform in the preparation of this report. However, this should be just the beginning of an overhaul of the police system.

The government must undertake decisive actions to restore public trust and dismantle the entrenched networks of corruption within the police force as well as its nexus with drug barons. There must be a rigorous and transparent process to hold those implicated accountable, including fair trials and appropriate disciplinary measures. This process should be overseen by an independent body to prevent internal biases from influencing the outcomes. In addition, to deter future misconduct, there needs to be continuous evaluation of police officials, coupled with stringent vetting procedures for new recruits. Implementing body cameras and increasing the use of surveillance technology can provide an additional layer of oversight. The government should invest in comprehensive drug education and rehabilitation programmes to address the demand side of the drug trade, thereby reducing the incentives for such illicit activities. This scandal demands not only punitive measures but also systemic reforms to prevent future recurrence. The government’s response will test its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens.

Published in Dawn, March 31st, 2024