ALL sort of crimes are rampant in Karachi today. It is beyond comprehension as to why no one is trying enough to curb the lawlessness in the city.

The politics of reconciliation has proved to be flawed for the city residents. Over 6,000 people have lost their lives in political and ethnic killings since 2008.

In order to solve the law and order problem, there must be a political will to call spade a spade and deal perpetrators with an iron hand regardless of their political affiliations and repercussions that may rise after arresting such criminals.

Pakistan is no short of upright, honest, competent and dedicated police officers.

The problem lies in interfering and meddling in affairs of the police department for vested interests.

If a free hand with total political backing is given to the police, I am quite positive that the situation can improve considerably.

Use of latest technology can help. For instance, CCTV cameras are a cost - effective method for crime prevention and detection.

The entire city should be monitored 24/7 and the government should generate funds for the commissioning of cameras through public - private partnership.

Civil society should be brought on board to improve the city’s state of affairs.

Effective use of mobile phone locators can help track and hunt down criminals. Since witnesses are reluctant to come forward due to fear, the witness protection programme must ensure providing foolproof security to witnesses.

M. ZAFIR ZIA Karachi