KARACHI: The federal government on Wednesday decided to grant special powers to Rangers for restoration of peace in Karachi plagued with political and ethnic violence, gang war and criminal activities.
The decision was taken at special session of the federal cabinet presided over Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif who is in the city on two-day visit.
The cabinet discussed various proposals to improve law and order situation in Karachi. A proposal of constituting a taskforce comprising senior police officers also came under consideration.
It was decided that Rangers will be given free hand in the city for their actions against criminal elements, and that a ‘decisive operation’ would be carried out to flush out 15 different criminal gangs.
According to sources, the meeting also decided that political officers appointed on political basis would be removed from their posts ahead of any full-fledged operation.
Addressing the cabinet meeting‚ the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that it is in impression among the people that police and law enforcement agencies have failed to check criminal activities in Karachi.
Earlier today, the Prime Minister held out the assurance that no-go areas in Karachi would be removed in the light of Supreme Court of Pakistan’s orders to restore peace in the city.
The Prime Minister said that he held talks with all the stakeholders including political parties‚ business community and high ranking officials of security and intelligence agencies to reach the right decision for bringing peace in Karachi.
“I can’t remain oblivious to the situation. I assure you that the problems will be resolved, all the no-go areas will be eliminated at all costs as authorities have been issued directives in this regard,” he said.
The PM Nawaz said operation against criminal elements would be ensured and directions of the Supreme Court regarding Karachi will be implemented in letter and spirit.
