Punjab to raise head money on criminals, terrorists to up to Rs20m

LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to form a legal framework for setting head money on terrorists and criminals involved in serious crimes.

For the first time, a committee has been formed to amend the Police Rules. The committee includes Home Secretary, IG Police, Secretary Finance and Additional IG CTD.

Sources told “Jang” Rule 15.18 of Police Rules 1934 for setting head money on terrorists and criminals did not mention “head money”. The bounties were named “Liberal Awards”. Earlier, the sources said, head money on terrorists and criminals was being determined based on a Standing Order of IG Punjab. The IG fixed the money based on the points made by Police Department.

The IG used to exercise these powers under Article 112 of Police Order 2002 which states the IG can notify any rule.

There were two types of points, criminals, accused of dacoity and serious crimes, and terrorists or leaders of terrorist organisations.

The head money on a convict with a maximum score of 26 points was set at Rs4 million. But, during the last two years, it increased up to Rs10 million, which could now be up to Rs20 million.

Sources said during the PTI government in 2021-22, observation was made by the Chief Minister regarding head money. There was no legal backing to increase head money, which could have led to legal and financial complications.

The meeting of the committee to amend Police Rules will be held tomorrow (Monday). Home Secretary Nurul Ameen Mengal, IG Punjab Dr Usman Anwar, Provincial Secretary Finance Mujahid Sherdil and Additional IGC TD Waseem Sial will attend.