Police crack down on kite flying across Islamabad, Punjab ahead of Basant celebrations

ISLAMABAD/LAHORE: Islamabad Police has intensified its crackdown against the sale and use of kites and hazardous chemical strings, taking effective action to curb the illegal activity.

According to a spokesperson for Islamabad Police, Lohi Bher Police Station arrested two suspects, including an Afghan national, who were involved in kite selling. A large quantity of kites and dangerous chemical strings was recovered from a bus traveling from Peshawar to Gujranwala.

SSP Operations Islamabad, Qazi Ali Raza, said that 472 different types of chemical strings, along with more than 2,700 kites, spinning wheels, and other related equipment, were seized from the suspects.

“Kite flying is not just a harmless activity but has become a deadly sport,” SSP Operations said. He warned that chemical strings pose a serious threat to innocent children, motorcyclists, and passers-by.

SSP Operations Qazi Ali Raza urged parents to strictly prohibit their children from kite flying and the use of chemical strings, emphasizing that responsible behavior is essential for public safety. He added that Islamabad Police can ensure a safe and peaceful city only with the cooperation of citizens.

PUNJAB POLICE CRACKDOWN ON KITE FLYING VIOLATIONS

Meanwhile, Punjab Police has also released an 18-day report on violations of the Kite Flying Act across the province, including Lahore.

According to the Punjab Police spokesperson, 357 suspects were arrested and 360 cases were registered for violating the Kite Flying Act during ongoing operations. Police recovered 30,774 kites and 676 string spinning wheels from across Punjab.

In Lahore alone, 107 suspects were arrested, while 2,650 kites and 97 chemical strings were seized.

Inspector General of Punjab Police, Usman Anwar, stated that kite flying will not be tolerated anywhere in the province and that strict action will be taken against violators. He clarified that Basant has been allowed in Lahore only on specific days under strict conditions.

The IG Punjab further noted that elements involved in the online kite business must also be brought to justice. He urged citizens to demonstrate responsibility by reporting kite flying at any location by calling 15.