Ensure ongoing shutdown: New IGP directs police

The newly appointed Inspector General of Police Benazir Ahmed today directed police to ensure the ongoing shutdown is enforced to control the spread of coronavirus.

He also instructed police to make sure they do not treat anyone poorly, saying, "We have to treat people humanely."

Benazir made the comments during a video conference with top officials of different police units.

The IGP said he wants to ensure people come to police first during any kind of trouble and they have full faith in law enforcers.

The new police chief also discussed measures taken to ensure physical distancing and said makeshift kitchen markets have been established in open spaces to facilitate it. 

He also asked police to coordinate with district and local administration to monitor the markets to make sure no one can store goods illegally and sell them at hiked prices.

The IGP also lamented the rise in crimes -- robbery and stealing -- in some areas amid the current situation.