CM commends police for 'drop' in street crime

Orders IG police to launch a crackdown on shops dealing in stolen, snatched mobile phones

KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has stressed the need for continuous improvement in the law and order situation in the metropolis while acknowledged a "significant drop in street crime from 254 cases per day in January to 170 in April." He also commended police and other law enforcers in curbing street crime in Karachi.

After receiving a briefing from IG Sindh Police Ghulam Nabi Memon on law and order, particularly street crime, CM Shah expressed cautious optimism about the progress made thus far. The police chief highlighted a comprehensive survey revealing 3,000 scrap dealers operating in the city, with 354 identified as dealing in stolen goods. Thirty-two teams have been mobilised to surveil these people, resulting in 77 FIRs, multiple arrests, and significant recoveries.

The chief minister directed the IG police to launch a crackdown on shops involved in the trade of illicit mobile phone devices and spare parts. Assurances were given that ongoing actions against such activities are in progress, with detailed updates promised within a week.

Regarding security measures, CM Shah reiterated his commitment to the Security-4 project, setting aside Rs1.4 billion for the installation of CCTV cameras at toll plazas and entry/exit points across the megalopolis. Of the 48 toll plazas, 40 are now equipped with CCTV surveillance, with 90% of the installation completed. CM Shah emphasised the timely completion of the remaining work, with plans to inaugurate the project by the end of June.

While referring to recent incidents, particularly the kidnapping of Mohammad Hussain Arain from Pano Aqil, Chief Minister Shah directed police to intensify operations against criminals in the dacoits-infested riverine area. Expressing concern over the safety of citizens, he asked police to prioritise the recovery of the abducted child and maintain close communication with the affected family.

CM takes notice of theft in temple

CM Murad Ali Shah has taken notice of an idol theft and other goods from Rama Pir temple in Tando Adam. He directed IGP Sindh to recover stolen goods from the temple and report to him. Shah said, "I have given clear instructions that no unfair treatment against minorities will be tolerated." He also asked IGP about progress in the recovery of a child, Muhammad Hussain Arayen, who was kidnapped three days ago from Puno Aqil. Shah instructed IGP to increase patrolling in areas with increasing crime including Karachi. Details of the operation against dacoits in Kacha should also be sent to the CM Secretariat.

Home Minister, Ziaul Hasan Lanjar, ordered to nab culprits involved in temple theft immediately. He sought a report from Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Hyderabad. He directed to ensure the arrest of culprits involved.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 18^th, 2024.