LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Friday called for collective efforts to counter both “visible and invisible” threats to public safety, saying law enforcement alone could not eliminate crime without active public participation.
Addressing religious scholars and members of the Provincial Paigham-e-Aman Committee in Lahore, the chief minister said tackling crime required a joint effort by the government, parents and society.
“It is easier to fight a visible enemy, but we must also fight the invisible enemy that has entered our homes, streets and mindsets,” she said.
Maryam Nawaz said ensuring the safety of citizens, particularly women and children, remained the government’s top priority.
“Roads and buildings have no value if people do not feel safe in their own homes,” she said.
Referring to the recent murder of a girl in Sargodha, the chief minister said she personally monitored the case until law enforcement agencies arrested the suspects.
While noting that the crime rate had declined in Punjab, she said government action alone could not replace parental supervision and civic responsibility.
She also highlighted incidents in which children drowned in rivers during the summer season and deaths caused by missing manhole covers.
Maryam said municipal authorities continued replacing stolen manhole covers, but many were stolen again shortly after installation.
She urged parents to keep children under close supervision in markets and public places.
“No one knows what is in another person’s mind,” she said.
The chief minister also referred to the recent collapse of a tuition centre roof in Lahore that claimed 14 children’s lives, urging parents to assess the condition and safety of educational buildings before enrolling their children.
Praising the Punjab Police for performing security duties during Muharram, Maryam Nawaz said many officers worked shifts of up to 18 hours.
She said one station house officer collapsed from exhaustion while on duty, describing it as a reflection of the force’s dedication to public service.
“We all have to play our part if we want to build a peaceful society,” she added.