KARACHI: Sindh’s Home Minister has instructed authorities to enforce strict action against lawbreakers without bias, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace during the festivities.
Karachi’s police department has announced robust security preparations for New Year’s celebrations, deploying over 6,000 officers across the city to curb aerial firing, rowdy behavior, and other violations. Officials confirmed that key areas, including the popular seaside spot Sea View, will remain accessible to the public.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Karachi’s Additional Inspector General of Police (AIGP), Javed Alam Odho, stated that comprehensive security plans are in place to safeguard citizens during the festivities. “We have arranged extensive security measures to ensure a safe New Year’s celebration,” he said, reassuring that no locations will be restricted from public access.
Odho emphasized that law enforcement will remain vigilant, with a focus on preventing illegal activities and maintaining order. He highlighted that more than 6,000 police personnel will patrol the city, overseeing traffic and swiftly addressing any disturbances. He made it clear that aerial firing and other unlawful acts would be strictly prohibited and that offenders could face severe charges, including attempted murder, if law enforcement authorities determine the incidents to be serious.
The police chief also mentioned that law enforcement agencies will utilize Safe City camera footage to identify and apprehend those involved in unlawful activities. Traffic police will be stationed at strategic points to facilitate smooth movement and reduce congestion, with the overarching goal of making Karachi a safer, crime-free city.
Meanwhile, Sindh’s Home Minister, Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, extended New Year greetings to residents and expressed hope that the upcoming year will usher in peace, security, and growth. He urged citizens to refrain from aerial firing and reckless driving, including one-wheeling stunts, and called on authorities to act promptly and impartially against offenders.
Lanjar reassured the public that foolproof security arrangements have been established throughout Karachi to ensure safety late into the night and appealed for cooperation, especially in following alternate traffic routes when necessary. “Protecting lives and property remains the top priority of the provincial government,” he stated.
