Nine Suspects Arrested in Factory Raid
Lahore police have arrested nine suspected kite dealers and seized more than 6,000 finished kites during a major operation in the city.
The raid was carried out by Mustafa Abad police after officers received confidential information about an illegal kite-manufacturing facility.
Police said SHO Malik Asadullah led the operation.
Officers raided the suspected factory and detained nine people who were allegedly involved in manufacturing and supplying kites to different districts.
The arrested suspects include Nauman, Zohaib, Ishtiaq, Asghar and Nadeem, along with several others.
Police said the suspects were caught while kite-making activity was underway.
A formal case has been registered against them.
The arrested men have been handed over to the investigation wing for further questioning and legal proceedings.
More Than 6,000 Finished Kites and Raw Material Recovered
Police said more than 6,000 completed kites were recovered from the premises.
Officials estimated that the seized stock was worth millions of rupees.
Investigators also recovered around 2,000 pieces of raw material allegedly being used for kite production.
Kite-making tools and other equipment were also taken into custody.
Police believe the factory was operating as a supply point for customers outside Lahore.
SP Cantt Investigations Raheela Iqbal said the suspects admitted during initial questioning that they were manufacturing kites at the location.
They allegedly supplied the products to buyers in different districts.
Police said digital communication and online location-sharing methods were reportedly used to coordinate deliveries.
Investigators are now examining the wider supply network and identifying other people who may have been involved.
Police Expand Search for Remaining Associates
Authorities said intelligence-based operations are continuing to trace and arrest additional suspects linked to the alleged network.
Investigators are expected to examine mobile phones, communication records and delivery routes connected to the arrested men.
Police will also try to establish how long the factory had been operating and the number of districts receiving kite supplies.
The latest operation comes amid continued enforcement against illegal kite manufacturing and sales in Punjab.
Police regularly conduct raids against manufacturers, sellers and distributors because of safety concerns linked to kite flying and dangerous strings.
Officials say illegal kite-related activity can lead to serious injuries and deaths, particularly when sharp or metallic strings are used near roads and electricity infrastructure.
SP Raheela Iqbal praised the police team involved in the raid.
She also announced commendation certificates for Additional SHO Mustafa Abad Asadullah and other officers who participated in the operation.
The investigation remains underway as police search for other alleged members of the supply network.
