ISLAMABAD, March 4: Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali on Tuesday asked the police force to perform its duties diligently and devotedly keeping the national interest supreme.

The prime minister was speaking at the 24th passing-out parade of 46 assistant superintendents of police (ASPs) at National Police Academy.

“The police officers will have to deliver and show credibility through their performance to earn respect and confidence of the masses,” he said.

He highlighted the need for developing a corruption-free environment in the country.

Mr Jamali asked the police to adopt a practical approach towards the problems of the people.

He said new rules had been formulated for the local government system and now district police officers had greater powers. They will have to shoulder great responsibilities, he added.

The prime minister also announced a grant of Rs100 million for the academy and said Rs50 million would be given during the current financial year, while the rest would be earmarked in the next fiscal year. He also gave away awards to police officers, who secured first position in various training disciplines.

ASP Mohammad Kashif Mustafa was given an award for showing overall best performance. A trophy was awarded to ASP Abdul Gafoor Afridi in firing discipline. ASP Dr Mohammad Abid clinched a trophy for showing best performance in academics.

Talking to newsmen, the prime minister said the government was taking all measures to ensure law and order in the country.

“Every country has its own problems but there is always a room for improvement.”

Answering a question about reports of FBI agents’ involvement in the hunt for suspected terrorists, the PM said, “our own agencies are carrying out operations against terrorists in the country.”

It is the media that directs everything towards the FBI and this trend should be avoided, he added.

“Our security and law enforcing agencies are fully capable to discharge their responsibilities,” the PM said.—APP