January 12, 2003	Sunday	Ziqa'ad 8, 1423

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SARGODHA, Jan 11: Inspector-General of Punjab police Masood Shah has said he did not believe the crime figure tabulated by police officials but prefer to keep his knowledge up to date by reading newspapers and elected representatives.

The IGP was speaking to newsmen on Saturday at the DIG’s office after his arrival here on a short visit to review the law and order situation.

IGP Shah expressed his displeasure over the law and order situation in the province and said he had directed to take effective steps to curb heinous crime and register cases. He warned his subordinates of stern action in case of violation of his directive.

He said he remained present in the office and paid attention to the visitors’ complaints.

He said it was his priority to curb crime. He was striving hard to eliminate torture in custody and restore people’s confidence in the police force, he added.

He said he had advised DIGs to promote community policing and focus on police liaison with public.

The IGP clarified that no raid was conducted by FBI after he assumed the office. However, the Punjab police raided suspects’ hideouts with the help of various local agencies.

IGP Shah said the chief minister had approved various welfare projects and sanctioned setting up of 400 patrol posts on highways to check the incidents of robberies.

He said the government had provided Rs105 million for the provision of uniform to police employees, while Rs20 million have been provided for the setting up of police welfare fund.

He said 9,700 employees would be recruited for investigation wing and 224 barracks would be constructed for the boarding and lodging of constables.

The IGP said the families of slain police officials would get full pay with increments till the time of his retirement. Their children would be provided free education, he added.

He addressed police Darbar and stressed them to improve their attitude. He also attended Bara Khana at Police Lines and visited various police stations.

The IGP told this scribe that he had planned tours throughout the Punjab and his today’s visit was a part of that plan.