Zero tolerance policy against violence in Karachi, says Zardari

The president wants police to be equipped with latest technology to fight crime.

KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari said that the incidents of street crime and extortion that have paralysed Karachi should be dealt with zero tolerance.

Addressing a meeting convened at Bilawal House to discuss Karachi’s law and order situation, Zardari gave directions on Monday to equip the police with aerial patrolling equipment and heavy-duty Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs).

Presidential Spokesperson Senator Farhatullah Babar said that the president has also asked for a report regarding the implementation of all the security decisions taken during the last meeting.

“We cannot and must not permit the criminal mafia to hold Karachi hostage,” said Zardari, adding that a combination of political will, strict measures and the use of latest technology would help punish the criminals.

Zardari also called for the strengthening of the police special branch.

Emphasising on the geo-fencing of localities with criminal elements, Zardari asked the provincial government to consider innovative ways to maintain peace in the city. He also called for a report on resource generation for this purpose.

Calling for a scientific study of the crimes carried out in the city, the president said this will help categorise crime on the basis of sectarianism, extremism, land grabbing, street crimes, targeted killing and political rivalries. “This will help in devising strategies for combating each category of crime,” he said.

Highlighting special powers given to the Rangers, Zardari said there is a need for greater coordination between law enforcing agencies and the intelligence agencies.

The meeting was attended by Governor Sindh Dr Ishtarul Ebad, Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah, Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Sindh Home Minister Manzoor Wassan and provincial ministers Syed Murad Ali Shah, Muhammad Ayaz Soomro and Agha Siraj Khan Durrani.