Law and order situation in Karachi has improved: AIG – Pakistan

KARACHI: The law and order situation in Karachi has improved markedly with a significant reduction in the daily average number of criminal incidents, said Javed Alam Odho, Additional Inspector General (IG) of Sindh Police.

Speaking at the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Odho said the number of incidents in the city has come down from 252 per day to 107, a sign of the increased effectiveness and strategy of the police in fighting crime.

Odho highlighted the progress made in Karachi’s investigation sector, noting that the crime detection rate has increased to 60%, a figure that is now higher than the detection rates in some developed countries, including the United States. This achievement, he said, is a testament to the strengthened investigation processes and the concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb criminal activities in the city.

Odho discussed the ongoing implementation of the Safe City project, which aims to strengthen Karachi’s security infrastructure through the installation and improvement of CCTV cameras.

The project, being implemented in partnership with the Sindh government, is a crucial part of the city’s crime prevention strategy.

Odho pointed out that many countries around the world have moved away from traditional policing methods such as stop-and-seek stops and roadblocks, and are instead using advanced surveillance technologies such as CCTV.

Karachi is following this trend and has now installed around 3,000 cameras at various locations in the city, through a public-private partnership.

More installations are planned to further enhance the city’s surveillance network.

Odho acknowledged the ongoing challenges facing the Karachi police, particularly the severe staff shortage.

He stressed that maintaining law and order in a sprawling metropolis like Karachi is a huge task, especially with the current strength of just 15,000 policemen.

Odho stressed the urgent need for additional manpower to ensure the safety and security of the city’s residents.

He also announced plans to increase police mobility and technological resources, including the purchase of 500 motorcycles for improved patrols.

Odho further indicated that the RRF (Rapid Response Force) will soon be integrated into the S4 project of the Karachi Police, which will help alleviate some of the manpower shortage.

He assured the business community that the police are actively tackling the issue of street crimes, especially incidents where traders are robbed after leaving the bank. Odho noted that several gangs involved in such activities have been busted, which has significantly reduced such crimes.

The Additional IG also highlighted the role of the Shaheen Force, a specialised unit that has played a significant role in curbing street crime in Karachi. He praised the force for bringing many criminal elements under control and emphasised its potential to further reduce street crime as it continues to operate effectively.

Javed Alam Odho also highlighted the achievements of athletes from Sindh Police. He noted that Shaheer Afridi, a young boxer from the police, recently became the champion of South Asia, beating opponents from various countries including India.

Similarly, Shahnawaz has made the Sindh Police proud through his achievements in bodybuilding. Odho urged the community to support and sponsor these talented individuals, stressing the importance of nurturing and showcasing the country’s athletic talent.

KATI Chairman Johar Qandhari expressed deep concern over the economic crisis plaguing the country which has led to the closure of over 300 businesses in Karachi.

This industrial downturn has led to the loss of jobs for 40,000 to 50,000 people, exacerbating the city’s unemployment problem. Qandhari warned that rising unemployment is contributing to an increase in law and order problems, including street crime.

He praised the efforts of the Sindh Police, especially the success of the 15-app, which has improved the efficiency of police operations through the use of modern technology.