RAWALPINDI: As many as 225 police officials were fined Rs2,000 each for entering thePolice Lines Headquarters, which houses the ofñces of the city police officer (CPO), SSP operations, SP investigation and other establishments, without having their biometric taken.

The fine, which was imposed on officers below the rank of DSP by the SSP investigation, sparked concerns among them.

They claimed that because of the high cost of daily needs in current situation they were already struggling to support their families and the deduction of Rs2,000 from their salary would make things even harder for them.On the other hand, a police official said some staff members who worked in police offices either consistently remained absent from duty or reported for duty very late and deserved to be punished, but not having their salaries deducted.

To ensure that police ofñcers are present on duty and come to office regularly, the biometric attendance system was implemented in 2021 at 750 police stations throughout Punjab, including 66 in the division of Rawalpindi.

The attendance system was also installed in the ofHees of the SSPs, SPs, DSPs and Police LinesHeadquarters.

Installation of the machines was a step towards modernisation of the force. The use of scientific technology, a senior police official said, was essential towards positive change in the police culture and advancement in efficiency.

Initially, the biometric attendance system was installed in 15 police stations of Rawalpindi district.

The official said the move would not only reform the system of attendance at police stations but would also ensure presence of junior and senior police officialsin their ofhces.