LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Friday directed the police to work in close collaboration with security agencies and keep an eye on suspicious elements for protecting the life and property of the citizens.
Chairing a high-level meeting on the law and order situation in the province, particularly in the wake of the Rasool Park tragedy, Shahbaz issued instructions for foolproof security of all institutions and sensitive places, besides reviewing security plan for the protection of foreigners.
The chief minister announced that Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah would chair meetings on the law and order twice a week. “Maintenance of civic peace and protection of life and property of the citizens is the top priority of the Punjab government and all possible steps are being taken for this purpose,” he said.
Shahbaz said Pakistan was passing through a crucial phase because terrorism had shaken the very foundations of the country. He believed that the whole nation was united against terrorism and this scourge would eventually be eliminated from the country.
The chief minister directed that effective steps be taken for the protection of all institutions, sensitive places, foreigners and those who come from other provinces. He said the best security companies should be contacted for foolproof security arrangements at different institutions.
“The installation of CCTV cameras at important places, institutions, roads and crossings is essential, and effective steps should be taken in this regard,” the chief minister added. He stressed the need for making full use of Elite Force for the purpose for which it was set up. He also directed that arrangements should be made regarding security of mosques and imam bargahs, during Ramazan.
Shahbaz said maintenance of law and order was also vital for promotion of investment as well as economic and commercial activities. He said it was the responsibility of police to maintain law and order, and protect life, property and honour of citizens.
The chief minister said the Anti-Terrorism Department was being equipped with modern weaponry to combat the scourge of terrorism in the province.
He said emoluments and facilities of police had substantially been increased, despite economic crunch, therefore, now it was the responsibility of police force to produce results. He warned that no laxity or dereliction of duty in this regard would be tolerated.