The Karachi police chief has issued a stern warning to protesters blocking major roads, calling for an immediate end to disruptions in the city. Labeling the protests as an unacceptable hindrance to daily life, the police chief emphasized that if roads are not cleared by tonight, law enforcement will take firm action under the law. The ongoing demonstrations have caused severe inconvenience for Karachi’s residents, prompting authorities to take a decisive stance.
Police Chief Condemns Road Blockages
Speaking to the media, Additional Inspector General (AIG) Karachi Javed Alam Odho criticized the protests for paralyzing Karachi’s infrastructure. He stated, “Blocking the city in the name of protest is unacceptable. Karachi’s citizens are suffering, and those who refuse to clear the roads will face legal action.”
The protests, organized by a religious group in solidarity with issues in Kurram, have brought chaos to major cities across Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar. In Karachi, sit-ins at Shahrah-e-Faisal, Numaish, and Gulistan-e-Johar have transformed short commutes into hours-long struggles, further aggravating the city’s already strained infrastructure.
Negotiations and Firm Action
Authorities have engaged in overnight negotiations with protesters. Religious leaders have also appealed to demonstrators to open blocked roads, but the protests continue to disrupt daily life. Odho stressed that leniency has its limits, warning, “Anyone attempting to block roads or disrupt public order will face strict action. Our instructions are clear, and we will act accordingly.”
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New Year’s Eve Safety Measures
Odho also announced measures to ensure public safety on New Year’s Eve, specifically targeting celebratory aerial firing. He warned that offenders would face attempted murder charges. “Last year, over 38 people were injured due to aerial firing,” he revealed. “We urge citizens to report violators. Cases will be filed under government prosecution, and we will revoke firearm licenses of offenders.”
The police chief reassured citizens that accountability within the force remains a priority. “No officer is above the law. Those exceeding their authority will face suspension or dismissal,” he affirmed.
Improved Police Performance and Reduced Crime
Highlighting progress in law enforcement, Odho reported a decline in street crime. Compared to the previous year, street crime dropped from 24% to 16%, with December marking the best month for performance. He cited a reduction in vehicle thefts and mobile phone snatching incidents.
Over 3,800 vehicle lifters were arrested, and 2,700 cases were sent to trial, resulting in more than 300 convictions. “While zero crime is unrealistic, we have made significant strides. Over 13,000 vehicle thefts were averted, and mobile snatching incidents fell by 8,000,” he added.
Karachi’s Economic and Social Importance
Odho emphasized Karachi’s critical role as Pakistan’s economic hub and urged collective efforts to address crime and maintain order. The ongoing protests and roadblocks, he warned, not only harm residents but also jeopardize the city’s stability.
With a firm warning to protesters and a renewed focus on safety and accountability, Karachi police aim to restore normalcy and ensure a safer environment for the city’s residents.
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