A high-level meeting was held on Saturday to improve the State & Counter Terrorism Committee, and review the overall law and order situation in Sindh, with Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar in chair.
Officials said that the relevant departments presented detailed briefings on security measures, counterterrorism strategies, street crime, narcotics control and other criminal activities. Lanjar said that in the current circumstances, terrorism is the greatest weapon against humanity, and that the writ of the state would be upheld at all costs.
He stressed that any elements challenging the law would face the consequences. He reiterated that Sindh would not be allowed to become a safe haven for terrorists under any circumstances.
He ordered that joint checkpoints of the relevant agencies be established at all internal and external entry and exit points of the province, remaining alert and operational at all times. Under the Safe City project, modern drone surveillance in Karachi would soon be launched to further strengthen the monitoring system.
Lanjar also instructed the Federal Investigation Agency to intensify action against illegal software, and the online sale and purchase of illegal weapons. He said that a progress report be submitted in the next meeting.
He ordered that the ongoing crackdown on scrap dealers and individuals involved in the trade of stolen mobile phones be tightened, and a comprehensive progress report be submitted. He emphasised that patronage of such elements contributes to the rise in crime, which would not be tolerated.
Regarding the illegally residing foreign nationals, particularly Afghans, he ordered that individuals lacking valid documents or permits be repatriated immediately in accordance with the law. “Any delay or excuse in this regard is unacceptable.”
He also ordered that formal letters be sent to all deputy commissioners for conducting a scrutiny of schools and colleges operating in the name of the armed forces.
Sindh police chief Javed Alam Odho said that incidents of theft and snatching of two- and four-wheelers have significantly declined compared to last year. “Street crime has also decreased, but it remains the biggest challenge. A special strategy has been adopted to address it.”
IGP Odho said that most extortion cases have been resolved, adding that two suspects are in Iran, while others have been arrested in injured condition.
He said that major narcotics traffickers are now within the grip of the law, and alongside arrests, their properties are also being sealed. The morale of the armed forces and Sindh police remains high, and all institutions are committed to maintaining peace in the province through coordinated efforts, he added.
Lanjar reaffirmed that the state institutions would work in full harmony to ensure the enforcement of law, and that no compromise would be made on peace, stability and the protection of citizens in Sindh.
