Karachi New Year night security: No cell service, ban on pillion riding

Police will register a case of attempted murder against any person involved in aerial firing in the city.

KARACHI: The police have decided to impose a ban on mobile phone service and pillion riding from 5:00 pm on Monday to 5:00 am on Tuesday on New Year night for security concerns.

The spokesperson of the Sindh Police SSP Imran Shaukat told Express that the police will register a case of attempted murder against any person found involved in aerial firing anywhere in the city.

Carrying arms on New Year night is also prohibited. All the roads leading to Sea View will be closed and parking there will not be allowed. However, people living in that area can use these roads. He said action will also be taken against motorcyclists doing one-wheeling or driving motorcycles without silencers.

Imran said that these measures are being taken to ensure the security of life and property of the citizens. He requested residents of Karachi to inform police on 15 of any violation and assured that the caller’s name will be kept secret.

Sindh Inspector General of Police Fayyaz Ahmed Leghari said in a statement on Saturday that all police departments must create a joint comprehensive strategy in order to maintain law and order in the province on New Year’s eve.

Leghari said he has ordered the police to exchange information with other law enforcement and intelligence agencies. He has also ordered an increase in police patrolling and snap-checking, especially at and around public places and important private properties.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 30^th, 2012.