LAHORE, March 3: Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Haji Habib-ur-Rehman has said that terror attack on Sri Lankan cricket team on March 3, 2009 took place because of ‘criminal negligence’ of two SPs. He, however, ruled out any kind of inefficiency on his part being the city police chief at that time.

Talking to reporters at his maiden news conference at his office here on Saturday, the IGP said he would consider transferring both the SPs. SHOs of 33 Model Police Stations were also present there.

He said foolproof security would be provided to the Bangladeshi cricket team during their visit to the Punjab province. He said he never compromised on principles of justice and rule of law despite being influenced (IGP) even by his family and friends for supporting their friends and other relatives.

Mr Rehman said that police stations would become Dar-ul-Aman (peace houses) in due course where people would be treated politely and justice would be provided to them without any recommendation or influence. He said the police had been conveyed to investigate each case without showing biasness or any personal and religious attachment. He said the culture of ‘Sifarsih’ and bribery would be eliminated from the department as the provincial government had announced several schemes for the betterment of police officials, especially constables.

When asked to comment on as to if his appointment was being assumed to manipulating upcoming general elections in favour of PML-N, the IGP said he was never interested in the top police slot and that his each action would be initiated for the betterment of public. Later, Mr Rehman distributed certificates among the 33 SHOs. — Staff Reporter