KARACHI: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh, Javed Alam Odho, has stated that the law and order situation in Karachi is significantly better compared to international hubs like London and New York. Speaking to industrialists at the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), the IG Sindh presented a comparative analysis of crime statistics to back his claim.
Crime Statistics: Karachi vs. London
IGP Odho highlighted that while Karachi recorded 16,500 mobile snatching incidents over the past year, London reported a staggering 84,000 such cases. He asserted that when compared to developed global cities, the data shows that Karachi is performing better in maintaining peace and safety.
Significant Reduction in Crime Rates
According to the IG, a year-on-year comparison for the month of March revealed a sharp decline in street crimes. Motorcycle snatching decreased by 54%, car snatching by 48%, and mobile snatching by 35%. Most notably, killings during resistance recorded a massive 88% reduction. These figures, according to the IG, prove that the police are succeeding in establishing peace.
Success in Riverine (Kacha) Areas
Discussing the “Nijat-e-Mehran” operation launched in January, the IG confirmed that the police have successfully cleared the Kacha areas of dacoits. The operation resulted in 32 bandits killed, over 100 arrests, and 225 surrenders. He assured that families can now travel through these previously dangerous routes without fear.
Modernization & Safe City Project
The IG Sindh announced that the Safe City Project has entered its second phase. This includes the installation of 2,225 high-tech cameras with facial recognition capabilities and rapid installation of road signs across major highways. To ensure the rule of law, FIRs will now be registered against traffic violators. Furthermore, 100 police mobile vans are being restored, with priority allocation to the four police stations covering the Korangi Industrial Area.
Social Reforms and Rehabilitation
Addressing the root causes of crime, IGP Odho identified drug addiction as a major catalyst for street crimes. He appealed to trade associations to sponsor Rehabilitation Centers, stating that treating addicts is crucial for a long-term reduction in the crime rate.
KATI’s Tribute to Police Sacrifices
Earlier, President KATI, Johumammad Ikram Rajput, paid tribute to the sacrifices of the Sindh Police in the fight against terrorism. He expressed satisfaction with the police department’s proactive approach under the current leadership to resolve the grievances of the industrial community.