THE breakdown of law and order one sees in society is quite alarming. The power of criminal gangs and mafias is a cause of fear and uncertainty among individuals and businesses. From muggings and snatchings to drug peddling and extortion, the mafias are active across the country, putting the law-enforcement machinery under serious stress.

The relevant authorities need to come into action with a concrete plan to curb the menace and restore some level of trust among the people. The twin elements of surveillance and investigation must be more potent, and there should be a judicial framework that may help expedite the prosecution process. Failure to do so would erode not only public safety, but also the social construct of society.

We should strengthen law-enforcement by increasing funding and resources for the relevant agencies to enhance their capabilities in combating organised crime. Specialised training can improve the level of effectiveness.

Besides, community policing initiatives must be initiated and encouraged to build trust between the law-enforcers and the general public. This will encourage people to keep a watchful eye within their loca-

lities as well as communities, and to be able to report crimes without fearing about their own fate once they approach the law-enforcers.

Furthermore, implementing sincere anti-corruption steps across the law-en- forcement machinery will also help in restoring public confidence and trust.

Nabeeha Usmani
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 2nd, 2024