Service rules for Punjab Crime Control Force proposed

• New rules define recruitment, promotions, and responsibilities.
• Specialised ranks introduced with distinct pay scales.
• Transparent hiring process to ensure merit-based selection.
  

LAHORE: The Punjab Police have introduced the proposed Crime Control Force (CCF) Service Rules, 2025, aimed at bolstering law enforcement efficiency across the province, The News reported.

Initiated under the special directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the plan envisions a specialised policing force dedicated to preventing, investigating, and combating organised crime, street crime, and other criminal activities. 

The framework is expected to significantly enhance public safety, making Punjab’s police force more agile and responsive to evolving criminal threats.

According to the documents obtained by Jang, the proposed rules, which would come into force immediately upon approval, provide a detailed structure for the Crime Control Force, encompassing recruitment, training, operational duties, promotion criteria, and other important guidelines.

The force will consist of several specialised ranks, each equipped with distinct responsibilities and pay scales. These ranks reflect the technical and investigative nature of the work that CCF personnel will engage in, as well as their increasing expertise and authority in combating complex criminal networks.

The proposed Crime Control Force (CCF) ranks include Deputy Superintendent Detective (BS-17), who will oversee operations and lead investigative teams tackling serious criminal activities. The Detective (BS-16) will handle high-profile criminal investigations and work closely with the Deputy Superintendent Detective. 

Assisting in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and analysis of criminal activities will be the Sub Detective (BS-14). The Assistant Sub Detective (BS-11) will be responsible for routine investigative duties and assisting in crime scene investigations. 

Meanwhile, the Junior Detective (BS-09) will carry out basic investigative tasks, supporting senior officers in evidence collection and processing. At the entry level, the Foot Detective (BS-07) will focus on physical surveillance, patrolling, and assisting officers in identifying criminal activities.

The proposed rules detail the methodology for recruitment, specifying the minimum qualifications required for each rank, as well as the appointing authorities. The recruitment will be conducted in a transparent manner, with candidates undergoing a thorough medical examination, educational verification, and security clearance from relevant agencies.

This ensures that only qualified and trustworthy individuals join the specialised ranks of the CCF. The appointments will be made on the recommendation of the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) or through a dedicated board, ensuring that the selection is based on merit.

The rules emphasise the importance of integrity and physical fitness, as recruits will undergo stringent assessments to ensure they meet the operational demands of the force. The rules outline a well-structured promotion process, which is designed to motivate personnel while maintaining a merit-based system.

The criteria for promotion, as defined in the schedules, will be strictly followed, and employees will be evaluated based on their performance, experience, and training.

The promotions will take place within the defined ranks, and the Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs) and Departmental Promotion Boards (DPBs) will oversee this process to ensure fairness.

Promotions from Foot Detective (FD) to Junior Detective (JD) will require evaluation by the SSP (Operations) of the CCD, with a similar structure in place for each upward progression within the ranks, from Junior Detective to Deputy Superintendent Detective. The guidelines ensure that seniority and merit are considered when making promotion decisions.

As part of the rules, probation periods are clearly defined. Recruits appointed through initial recruitment will undergo a two-year probationary period, while those promoted to higher ranks will have a one-year probation period.

During probation, the personnel will be assessed for their performance and suitability for permanent positions. If a probationer successfully completes the required term and demonstrates adequate competency, they will be confirmed in their position.

Extensions to the probation period may be made for valid reasons, but in no case shall it exceed an additional year. The proposed rules place significant emphasis on the ongoing professional development of CCF members. 

The competent authority is tasked with ensuring that the personnel undergo regular training to enhance their technical and operational capabilities. This training will be conducted at designated police training institutes or any other institution approved by the Government of Punjab.

The training programs will cover a wide array of subjects, including criminal law, investigative techniques, surveillance, counterterrorism strategies, and modern crime-fighting technologies. Each CCF employee will have clearly defined roles and responsibilities, ensuring operational efficiency and clarity.

The primary function of the CCF will be to combat organised crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, street crimes, and other criminal activities that affect public safety. Personnel will work across Punjab, from urban centers to rural areas, collaborating with the local police and other agencies as needed. 

The specialised nature of the CCF means that employees will focus solely on crime control duties and will not be transferred to other police departments, ensuring that the force remains focused on its core mandate.

Seniority within the CCF will be determined based on aggregate marks obtained during the initial recruitment process and the performance during training. For promotions, seniority will follow the ranking established during the initial appointment, with preference given to older employees in the case of ties in merit.

The employees will be entitled to the same leave provisions as per the Revised Leave Rules, 1981, and any disciplinary actions will be handled according to the Punjab Police Efficiency and Discipline Rules, 1975. 

These provisions ensure that personnel maintain a high standard of conduct, and those who violate rules or fail to meet performance standards are held accountable.

To ensure effective administration of the CCF, senior officers within the Crime Control Department, including the Senior Superintendent of Police (Admin) and Additional Inspector General of Crime Control, will have significant administrative, financial, and operational powers.

These authorities will be responsible for deploying personnel, managing finances, overseeing transfers and postings, and implementing operational strategies to enhance law enforcement effectiveness.

The recruitment process will adhere to a fixed quota system as outlined in a government notification, ensuring diversity and equal opportunities for all candidates from different regions and backgrounds. 

This system will be observed against the total sanctioned strength of the force, further ensuring a balanced and representative recruitment process.

The introduction of the Crime Control Force (CCF) Service Rules, 2025, marks a major milestone in the Punjab Police’s efforts to combat organised crime and improve the overall efficiency of law enforcement in the province.

With clearly defined ranks, a merit-based recruitment and promotion system, and a strong emphasis on training and professional development, the CCF is poised to become a formidable force in the fight against crime.

The proposed rules are designed not only to enhance operational capabilities but also to provide a transparent, accountable framework for the management and welfare of personnel within the force.