Summary The resolution also calls for waiving off anti-terrorism sections against those arrested by Rangers.
KARACHI (Dunya News) – Chief Minister (CM) Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah finally received the green signal on the issue of extension of special powers granted to Rangers. A resolution for the extension of power has been prepared. The resolution also contains a request to waive anti-terrorism sections against individuals arrested by Rangers for corruption.
The resolution calling for the extension on Rangers’ exclusive power to conduct search and arrest was prepared in a meeting led by CM Sindh. The resolution will be presented in the Sindh Assembly by Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Sikander Mandhro in which the extension for the powers will be supported.
Shah earlier met Corps Commander Karachi Lieutenant General Naveed Mukhtar and discussed giving extension to Rangers’ powers in Karachi along with the decisions of Apex committee and many other matters in detail.
Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has also earlier called on Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Islamabad and discussed country’s overall security situation.
Sources told that the Interior Minister also discussed issued of extension in Rangers’ policing powers in Sindh and stressed that paralimlitary Rangers need legal protection to continue targeted operation in Karachi.
PM Nawaz also lauded the role of law enforcement personnel in Karachi operation, stating that situation in the metropolis has improved due to action against criminal elements.
The deadline for Rangers to exercise exclusive policing powers in the city of Karachi had previously ended on December 5 as the Sindh government failed to provide the extension.
The special powers to arrest and conduct raids were provided to Rangers under the Anti-Terrorism Act and were part of the ongoing operation against terrorists and criminal elements in the city.
Previously, these powers were extended every 3 months via notification by the Sindh government; however the provincial government was unable to submit the request to the Federal government this time around.
