18 July 2004	Sunday	29 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1425

KARACHI, July 17: Sindh governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan has called for uprooting crime gangs, including gambling and narcotics dens.

Effective measures be also taken against encroachments, wall chalking, and obscene movies, he said while presiding over a high-level meeting at the governor's house on Friday night.

He directed that a certificate be obtained from each police station in charge and the TPO regarding existence/ non-existence of gambling/betting/narcotics dens and places where obscene movies are shown in their respective areas.

He asked the IGP and the City Police Chief to initially give them one week's time and obtain certificates in writing from police officers regarding elimination of crimes in their areas and later such a certificate be obtained from them every fortnightly.

The governor made it clear that anti-social elements and those involved in crimes would surely be brought to the net. He said action be taken in all parts of the province without any discrimination or pressure.

He said that despite an assurance by the police officials, if crime dens were found in any area, action will be taken against concerned officials.

Regarding elimination of drug trafficking, the governor directed that a special line of action be chalked out by the police. In this regard, he said the cooperation of NGOs be sought and special wards be made functional in government and private hospitals.

He asked the home department and the police that progress in this regard be achieved as a "cause".

Dr Ishratul Ibad also took serious notice of operation of mini-cinema houses and exhibition of obscene movies by certain cable-operators and called for issuing warnings to such operators and cancellation of their licenses in case of continued violation.

He also took notice of reappearance of wall chalking and said the elements involved, as well as painters, be apprehended.

The governor also called for removal of encroachments to improve the smooth flow of traffic and to ensure right of way.

Earlier, the provincial home minister and police authorities apprised the governor about their on-going drive against anti-social elements in the city and particularly the steps taken for elimination of crime dens and criminals hideouts in Lyari and Pak Colony areas.

The governor appreciated the action and issued necessary instructions. He directed that instead of carrying out such an action under a campaign or restricted operation, it must continue as a routine.-APP