KARACHI:
The spike in crime rates across Sindh has proved that the Sindh police have failed to fulfil their role. The weakness of the police department stems from its politicisation. Politicians have long held the reins of the department exploiting it for their benefit. Instead of inducting individuals for senior positions on merit, different political leaders are involved in the selection and promotion of individuals. Therefore, if not all, at least most police officers are engaged in trying to please the leaders.
Some officials claim that the department is not given enough funds to acquire sophisticated technology, which is hindering its performance. The guns they carry are outdated, which prevents them from going after criminals who have modern weapons. For instance, the police are reluctant to go to Kachho, which is known as the hub of crimes and criminal hideouts to avoid being attacked during raids. This demonstrates that the police lack the technology to detect and trace criminals as well as protective items to safeguard themselves during operations.
Public mistrust in the police and the police’s inability to restore people’s confidence has allowed criminals to continue their activities unabated. Most people do not register FIRs with the police or follow up on cases making it difficult for the police to catch and convict criminals. Allegations of corruption and poor government facilitation have all contributed to the failure of the Sindh police. The provincial government should allocate sufficient funds to the department and implement strict laws prohibiting bribery. Officers should be inducted and promoted on merit. Sindh police must work on reviving its image by tackling the increasing crimes across the province.
Rashid Ali Dool
Thul
Published in The Express Tribune, November 27th, 2022.
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