KARACHI: Law and order situation in Karachi has shown marked improvement, with significant reduction in daily average of criminal incidents, according to Additional Inspector General Sindh Police Javed Alam Odho.

Speaking at luncheon hosted by Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Odho revealed that number of incidents in city has decreased from 252 per day to 107, reflecting enhanced police effectiveness and strategy in combating crime. He highlighted progress made in Karachi’s investigation sector, noting that crime detection rate has soared to 60 percent, figure that now exceeds detection rates in some developed countries, including United States. This achievement, he said, is testament to strengthened investigative processes and concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb criminal activities in city. He discussed ongoing implementation of Safe City project, which aims to bolster Karachi’s security infrastructure through installation and upgrading of CCTV cameras.

Project, which is being carried out in partnership with Sindh government, is critical component of city’s crime prevention strategy.  He pointed out that globally, many countries have moved away from traditional policing methods, such as snap checks and roadblocks, in favour of advanced surveillance technologies like CCTV. Karachi is following this trend, with approximately 3,000 cameras already installed across various parts of city under public-private partnership. More installations are planned to further enhance city’s surveillance network. Odho acknowledged ongoing challenges faced by Karachi police, particularly severe shortage of personnel. He emphasised that maintaining law and order in sprawling metropolis like Karachi is formidable task, especially with current strength of just 15,000 officers. He stressed urgent need for additional manpower to ensure safety and security of city’s residents. He announced plans to increase police mobility and technological resources, including procurement of 500 motorcycles for enhanced patrolling. He highlighted role of Shaheen Force, specialized unit that has been instrumental in curbing street crime in Karachi. He credited force with bringing many criminal elements under control and emphasised its potential to further reduce street crime as it continues to operate effectively.  KATI President Johar Qandhari expressed deep concern over economic crisis plaguing country, which has led to closure of over 300 industries in Karachi. This industrial downturn has resulted in loss of jobs for 40,000 to 50,000 people, exacerbating city’s unemployment problem. 

Qandhari warned that rising unemployment is contributing to an increase in law and order issues, including street crime. He praised efforts of Sindh Police, particularly success of 15 App, which has enhanced efficiency of police operations through use of modern technology. CEO of KITE Limited Zahid Saeed and Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan also addressed gathering, paying tribute to martyrs of Sindh Police and underscoring importance of completing Safe City project in Karachi.