ISLAMABAD: While crimes against foreign nationals have increased in the federal capital, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday announced to establish a special protection force for their security.

Chairing a meeting in connection with the law and order situation, he said the protection of foreign nationals will be ensured in the capital.

In the current month, a woman from the Swiss embassy and five local people were robbed. They had parked vehicles near Shah Allah Ditta in the limits of Golra police station and started biking towards a stupa located in the limits of Taxila. In the midway, they were stopped by armed men and robbed of mobile phones and watches.

They detained four of the persons, including women, and asked the two others to go and bring cash from their automated teller machines (ATM), warning that their associates will be killed if they informed the police. They went and brought cash and handed it over to the robbers.

Says Islamabad Safe City Project will be equipped with modern equipment on pattern of Lahore

In another incident, a Saudi diplomat approached the Margalla police station with the complaint that one of his compatriots had been kidnapped from F-8.

The other day, the interior minister had also announced to launch a “Margalla Trail Portal” to secure the trails, especially for foreigners who love exploring them.

“Our tri-pronged security cover includes trail motorcycles, mounted police (horses) and foot partolling,” he posted a message on social media.

During the meeting on Saturday, the minister directed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Nasir Rizvi to ensure foolproof security of the Red Zone. He also directed the police to use modern technology to tighten the noose around gangs selling drugs.

“The sale of ice and other drugs outside educational institutions will not be tolerated at all. Drug dealers are against the country’s prosperity and uplift,” he said.

He also directed the police to ensure the registration of FIRs at any cost and made it clear that action would be taken against concerned police officers for not registering cases.

The minister also sought a comprehensive plan to address traffic issues in the federal capital city. He asked for finalising the promotion cases of Islamabad police as soon as possible and fill the vacant posts.

He said the Islamabad Safe City Project will be equipped with modern requirements on the pattern of Lahore. He said the salaries of Islamabad police officials will be increased to the level of Punjab police to boost their morale.

Published in Dawn, April 28th, 2024