Police told to tighten security net amid concerns

IG Odho orders enhanced patrolling, snap-checking and surveillance ahead of public events

KARACHI:

The Sindh police chief has ordered heightened security measures across the metropolis in view of public events and the prevailing situation, directing police to intensify snap-checking, patrolling and picketing and keep a close watch on suspicious activities.

The directives were issued during a high-level meeting chaired by IG Police Javed Alam Odho at the Central Police Office on Monday to review the overall law and order and security situation in the province.

Attendees at the meeting included AIGs for Karachi, Special Branch, Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and Operations, as well as DIGs, AIGs and SSPs. Zonal and divisional DIGs and district SSPs participated via video link.

Officials briefed the meeting on the overall security situation in Karachi and other parts of the province. Security arrangements for Operation Nijat Mehran, foreign nationals, Rabiul Awwal gatherings, major events and public assemblies were also reviewed.

AIG Karachi Azad Khan told the meeting that an effective strategy and comprehensive plan had been put in place to maintain law and order and curb crime in the metropolis. Comprehensive security arrangements have also been made for public events, gatherings and religious assemblies, he added.

IG Odho directed police to make snap-checking, patrolling and picketing more effective across Karachi and maintain strict surveillance of suspicious activities. He further directed police to maintain close watch on criminal elements and their possible networks in the riverine areas, while ensuring continuity of the gains made under Operation Nijat Mehran.

The provincial police chief also ordered strict and indiscriminate action against elements attempting to disrupt law and order and directed officers and personnel to remain fully alert until crime was brought under control.

He stressed that there would be no tolerance for negligence in the security of foreign nationals.