Preparations for Shab-e-Baraat: Strict check on illegal sale of chemicals

KARACHI: In the wake of the forthcoming Shab-e-Baraat, Sindh Inspector General of Police Shahid Nadeem Baloch has directed the additional IGP of Karachi to keep a strict vigil over the illegal and unsafe manufacturing and transportation of chemicals used for fireworks. “This must not be allowed at any cost in the residential areas nor should it be transported or sold there,” said the IGP on Friday. The provincial police chief said that a comprehensive and foolproof strategy by the Karachi Police Zone East, West and South was required to avert any possible catastrophe due to poor handling of hazardous chemicals. Baloch said that areas notorious for the business must be kept under strict surveillance through regular checking and intelligence sharing.  He ordered the officials to ensure that FIRs were registered against the culprits involved in the business. Baloch said police officials found involved in the business would also not be spared.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 22^nd, 2013.