Autonomous, de-politicised and accountable police force stressed for effectively coping challenges

ISLAMABAD, Apr 4 (APP):The police force must be made autonomous, de politicized and accountable for coping the present day challenges being confronted by the country, said experts and former high ranking police officers while addressing three day International Counter Terrorism Forum (IICTF-2018) here on Wednesday.
Speaking in a discussion forum titled ‘Improving the Law Enforcement, Policing and De radicalization,’ the speakers said good governance and rule of law is imperative for a healthy and crime free society.
They said the country badly depends on military in every emergency or disaster. Counter terrorism is not military’s job. Police force should be first line of defence. The main difference between police and military is their flawless training. As a nation we never invested in civilian law enforcement agencies.
Professor of International Security Studies, National Defence University’s College of International Security Affairs, former police officer, Hassan Abbas said a strong military needs a strong police. We must ensure capacity building of Police force and promote friendly policing.
Country Head UNODC, Cesar Guedes while speaking on topic titled “Rule of Law and De radicalization of prisons’ said United Nations was providing technical assistance and coherence for counter terrorism initiatives. UN offers training to criminal justice officials to enhance their capacities to combat the menace of terrorism and extremism.
He said prison administration must ensure positive environment to inmates, avoid overcrowding.
Legal Expert, Criminal Justice System Former Registrar Supreme court of Pakistan Dr Faqir Hussain spoke on topic titled ‘Reforming the Criminal Justice System,’ said the enactment of 21st constitutional amendment was virtually no confidence on country’s justice system.
Addressing the forum former police officer Tariq Khosa stressed ensuring capacity building of law enforcement agencies, good governance and rule of law for a healthy and crime free society.