Sindh chief justice for expediting Safe City Project

Provincial Justice Committee voices concern over deteriorating law & order situation

KARACHI:

The meeting of Provincial Justice Committee (PJC) headed by Sindh High Court Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi, has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in the province, which has instilled fear and panic among the populace.

The committee convened in the Committee Room of Sindh High Court at Karachi was held to address pressing concerns regarding the law and order situation, street crime, and the progress of the Safe City Project. Chief Justice Abbasi underlined the need for urgent practical measures to safeguard the life and property of citizens.

The meeting, attended by key officials including IG Sindh police, DG Rangers, and representatives from relevant departments, highlighted a troubling increase in street crime and robberies in Sukkur, Larkana, and Karachi.

Chief Justice Abbasi underscored the importance of expediting the Safe City Project. The initiative aims to enhance surveillance capabilities through the installation of CCTV cameras in vital urban centres and areas. Stressing the importance of citizen safety, the chief justice directed the completion of the project's first phase within two years.

To address the root causes of crime, Chief Justice Abbasi emphasised the need for increased police presence, strategic patrolling, and enhanced coordination among law enforcement agencies. He advocated for robust measures such as cross-referencing suspect data with national records and reviewing procedures for issuing mobile phone SIMs.

The meeting resolved to hold SSPs and SHOs accountable for incidents within their jurisdictions and to crack down on criminal syndicates involved in supplying illegal weapons and trading stolen goods.

Moreover, concerns were raised regarding organised crime, including kidnappings for ransom, which have surged in the province. Despite the efforts of law enforcement agencies, the meeting acknowledged their limitations in curbing these activities, prompting calls for decisive action.

The DG Rangers provided insights into the deployment of personnel, with 11,000 paramilitary troops assisting police efforts in Karachi alone. While Rangers do not wield policing powers, they play a crucial supportive role, particularly at key entry and exit points of cities.

In closing, Chief Justice Abbasi reiterated the imperative of prioritizing citizen safety and urged swift action from all stakeholders. The home secretary affirmed the commitment to completing the Safe City Project in five phases, with the initial phase slated for completion within two years.

The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to confront the challenges head-on and to uphold the rule of law, ensuring the protection of every citizen's fundamental rights.

Published in The Express Tribune May 11^th, 2024.