Sindh Implements Ban on Public Display of Weapons
The Sindh government has initiated a three-month prohibition on the public display of licensed weapons throughout the province, effective immediately. This measure, announced on Tuesday, is aimed at bolstering public safety and alleviating feelings of insecurity among residents.
The ban, outlined in a notification issued by Additional Chief Secretary-Home Muhammad Iqbal Memon, grants exceptions to law enforcement personnel while on duty. Moreover, guards employed by registered private security firms are authorized to carry weapons during their designated work hours at assigned locations. However, these guards are strictly prohibited from openly showcasing or brandishing their weapons while in transit.
Additionally, the notification mandates that security personnel refrain from visibly displaying firearms during patrols or duties conducted in public areas, with the goal of averting any unnecessary alarm among the populace.
Station House Officers (SHOs) at police stations are directed to register complaints under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code against individuals found violating the ban, which is enforced under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code. This legal framework underscores the ban’s seriousness and delineates consequences for non-compliance.
Furthermore, the home department has mandated Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) to furnish fortnightly reports on the ban’s implementation and any instances of infringement. This reporting mechanism ensures continuous oversight and enforcement of the new directive.
The proactive stance of the Sindh government underscores its dedication to upholding law and order, prioritizing the safety and security of its populace by curbing the public display of firearms.
