In the wake of a shocking incident in which a Punjab Armed Police (PAP) jawan was attacked and his service rifle snatched, Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav has issued a state-wide advisory directing police personnel to adopt heightened security measures while on duty and during travel.
The advisory comes amid concerns over potential threats to police personnel, particularly those posted in sensitive and border areas.
Also read: ACC Approves Premature Repatriation of B. Kasiviswanathan to Parent Railway Cadre
DGP Calls for Greater Vigilance
During a video conference with officers and personnel across the state, DGP Gaurav Yadav reportedly advised the force to take proactive steps to safeguard their lives and government property.
Police personnel have been instructed not to travel alone and to ensure that they carry their service weapons while moving outside official premises.
Senior officers have also been asked to closely monitor compliance with the safety instructions and sensitize field personnel about security risks.
Advisory Follows Rifle Snatching Incident
The move follows an incident at Harike Pattan in Tarn Taran district, where Punjab Armed Police jawan Sukhwinder Singh was allegedly attacked by unidentified assailants in the early hours of Saturday.
During the attack, suspects reportedly snatched his Self-Loading Rifle (SLR) before fleeing the spot.
The injured jawan was later shifted to a medical facility in Faridkot for treatment.
Border-Area Personnel Already Under Special Instructions
Officials indicated that police personnel posted in border districts had earlier been advised against travelling alone, particularly while wearing uniform outside police establishments.
As part of existing precautions, officers stationed in sensitive locations were instructed to leave their residences in civilian clothing and change into uniform only after reaching their respective police stations or duty locations.
The latest advisory expands the emphasis on personal security across the force.
Focus on Personnel Safety
The instructions underline growing concerns regarding the safety of police personnel in operational areas and the need for greater situational awareness.
Senior police officials believe preventive measures such as travelling in groups, remaining armed and avoiding predictable movement patterns can reduce vulnerabilities and enhance officer safety.
Strengthening Operational Preparedness
The advisory reflects the Punjab Police leadership’s efforts to ensure that personnel remain alert and adequately protected while discharging their duties.
Authorities are also expected to review security protocols and operational practices in the aftermath of the Harike Pattan incident as investigations continue into the attack and rifle snatching case.
Also read: SSS Defence G72 Submachine Guns Delivered to Punjab Police: Full Details Inside
