Sindh Police Launches WhatsApp Helpline for Citizens

Karachi, the country’s biggest metropolis, is no stranger to a rising spate of crimes. However, starting today, citizens of Karachi can hope to engage with police in real-time thanks to the launch of an official WhatApp helpline and Facebook page by the local police force.

Sindh Police says that its helpline and social media page will help it better address citizens. They are also hoping to form a 2000-strong Rapid Police patrolling squad to better serve the city.

These measures were announced yesterday by Karachi Range Additional Inspector General of Police (AIG) Dr Amir Ahmed Shaikh during his visit to Sindh Industrial Trading Estate (SITE). He inaugurated the SITE Self Security System (SSSS) during his trip to the area.

Shaikh also told reporters that he has talked with Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah to request funding for an extensive CCTV network all over Karachi as part of a safe city project as seen in other cities.

He admitted that Karachi Police has a manpower issue and that results in lack of effective policing throughout the city. He says efforts are being made to improve investigation, response and forensic procedures.

“From 2011 till date more than 546 police personnel have been martyred in the line of duty,” he said.

Site Self Security System

Shaikh inaugurated SSSS during his trip to site yesterday. The system was developed by industrialists in the area, that houses as many as 2,400 factories. The system, it should be mentioned, was designed without any help, it is also being operated by representatives of SITE-based industrialists as well.

The SSSS comes with 143 CCTV cameras at different locations. About 28 pickets and protective walls have been constructed in 31 locations.

SITE has allocated 10 motorcycles to the police force to help them patrol the area.

It is hoped that with the launch of the WhatsApp online, police personnel will be available to contact at all times, and that a rapid response team is formed at the earliest.