Tight security: ‘Crime rate down due to police efforts’

Minister says action being taken against criminals listed in the Fourth Schedule.

LAHORE: The implementation of the National Action Plan against terrorism has brought down the crime rate, Home Minister Col (retd) Shuja Khanzada said on Wednesday.

Talking to reporters at the Civil Secretariat, Khanzada said that action was being taken against proclaimed offenders and the criminals listed in the Fourth Schedule. “Police and security agencies have launched an operation against terrorists and their facilitators in the light of secret information. Important successes have been achieved in many cases. The government, police and other law enforcement agencies are taking action against terrorists on a large scale. A zero-tolerance policy is being followed in this regard,” he said.

The provincial minister said that sentences for various crimes had been enhanced through amendments in law. “Several crimes have been declared un-bailable. Police and law enforcement agencies are making all out efforts for the maintenance of law and order in the province. Their efforts are commendable,” he said. Khanzada said that new weapons and other equipment were being provided to police. “Cash prizes awarded for outstanding performance have been increased,” he said.

He said that police had been directed to continue action against vehicles with tinted glasses. He appealed to the people to cooperate with police regarding the security measures being taken for their protection.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 22^nd, 2015.