Chandigarh, April 11 (NationPress) On Saturday, the Punjab government announced that it has empowered the Punjab Police to offer rewards for informants under its newly established ‘reward policy’ for providing crucial information about wanted criminals and gangsters or their networks within the state.

Additionally, a list of 28 most wanted criminals has been made public. Under the initiative ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’, the government has granted sanctioning authority of up to Rs 1 lakh to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP); Rs 1.5 lakh to Commissioner of Police, Range Inspector General of Police, and Deputy Inspector General of Police; Rs 2 lakh to heads of wings (Special Director General of Police and Additional Director General of Police); and amounts exceeding Rs 2 lakh to the Director General of Police (DGP). These rewards will be disbursed solely for accurate and authentic information.

This initiative aims to enhance community involvement in helping the government and police create a safer environment in the state.

“All information will undergo verification before any awards are given. The identities of informants will remain confidential at all levels—police, public, or government. The goal is to effectively close all avenues for criminals and gangsters operating in Punjab, and the government is committed to pursuing this objective relentlessly,” stated Pramod Ban, ADGP, Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF).

Individuals can report information via the ‘Anti-Gangster Helpline’ at 9394693946.

“Informants who provide credible leads leading to the apprehension of wanted criminals, proclaimed offenders, or habitual criminals will receive rewards. The Punjab Police will diligently follow up on the leads provided by informants. This initiative will also enhance the Punjab Police's capacity to curb criminal activities. Information collected through this initiative will further bolster ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ under operation Prahaar,” added Pramod Ban.

This reward program prioritizes the confidentiality of tipsters. “We encourage more citizens to step forward and assist the government and police in reducing criminal activities across the state. Protecting every resident is our duty and responsibility. We will only act on information after proper verification, ensuring no risk to the informant,” he emphasized.

The reward amount will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis depending on the severity of the offense, the risks involved, and the quality of information provided. This policy is part of the ongoing campaign ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ aimed at eradicating gang violence in Punjab.