President Zardari leads fight against drug menace

President Asif Ali Zardari convened a pivotal meeting in Sindh to address the prevailing security situation and discuss measures to enhance peace and stability across the province.

The high-level gathering, chaired by President Zardari, saw the participation of key figures including Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi, Federal Minister for Science and Technology Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon, Minister for Energy Naseer Shah, Interior Minister Sindh Zia ul Hassan Lanjar, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, Federal Interior Secretary Khurram Aga, Sindh Chief Secretary Agha Waqar, DG Rangers Major General Azhar Waqas, Sindh Police IG Ghulam Nabi Memon, and heads of various provincial agencies.

Welcoming President Zardari’s arrival at the Chief Minister’s House here on Wednesday, CM Murad Ali Shah extended warm regards to the esteemed guests. President Zardari received a briefing from Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on the overall security situation in Sindh. Notably, recent operations against street crime and dacoits in Karachi and its outskirts have significantly improved the security landscape, a development shared by CM Murad Ali Shah with the President.

President Zardari highlighted the positive impact of various events, including the recent visit of the Iranian President to Karachi, the successful hosting of PSL and international cricket matches, and religious gatherings, as indicators of improved peace and security in the region.

Focusing on maintaining peace and security across the province, CM Murad Ali Shah informed President Zardari of regular coordination meetings held with law enforcement agencies to enforce law and order effectively.

President Zardari received detailed briefings on efforts to combat street crime, apprehend dacoits, and control the proliferation of illegal substances in the region. He emphasized the need for swift and decisive action against criminals. Updates on crime statistics revealed a decrease in street crime incidents over the past months, with a notable reduction in thefts and robberies.

President Zardari directed authorities to expedite infrastructure projects such as the completion of the Karachi Safe City Project and the improvement of internal and external road networks to enhance security measures. Furthermore, President Zardari instructed the Sindh government to intensify efforts to curb drug trafficking and raise awareness among parents and communities about the dangers of substance abuse, especially among school children.

President underscored the importance of inter-provincial coordination to address security challenges effectively and authorized Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to initiate collaborative efforts with Punjab and Balochistan governments. Furthermore, President Zardari approved the renovation and construction of 200 police stations in Sindh and instructed the Sindh government to expedite the process. President Zardari reiterated his firm stance against drug mafias and urged law enforcement agencies to take stringent action against those involved in narcotics trade.

Expressing concern over reports of drugs infiltrating schools, President Zardari emphasized the need for stringent measures to safeguard children from the menace of drugs. He stressed the collective responsibility of society in protecting the youth from falling victim to substance abuse.

President Zardari reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peace and security in Sindh and urged concerted efforts from all stakeholders to tackle security challenges effectively.