THE statement by Sindh CM Syed Murad Ali Shah about bolstering police force is indeed necessary. Particularly in Karachi, the situation has historically been complex. The role of the Rangers in restoring peace in provincial capital in the past cannot be understated. Their intervention was crucial in curbing the wave of violence and criminal activities that had paralyzed the city. On the other hand the city’s police have often been found compromised, with some personnel suspected of being involved in or turning a blind eye to criminal activities. This nexus between law enforcement and criminal elements erodes public trust and undermines the effectiveness of the entire justice system.
Addressing this requires a multifaceted approach, beginning with the purification of the police force. The appointments and promotions in police need to be made purely on merit without any political interference. Strengthening police through specialized training and modern equipment is equally vital. Terrorists and criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods. The police must be equipped with state-of-the-art tools, technology and training to stay one step ahead. Advanced techniques in forensics, cybercrime and counter-terrorism are necessary to deal with the changing nature of crime. A well-equipped, well-trained police force can be the first line of defence in preventing and countering terrorism, organized crime and other forms of violence. Additionally, restoring accountability within the police force is critical. Officers must be held accountable for their actions and there must be a system in place to investigate corruption and criminal activities within the force itself. Public trust in the police can only be restored if the force is perceived as fair, impartial and above reproach. The goal should be to creating an institution that is committed to justice, integrity and service. The journey towards a safer and more secure Pakistan begins with building a police force that the public can trust and that is capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century. Only then will the people of Sindh—and the whole nation—feel secure in their homes, their communities and their streets.
