As the city police operational strength of less than 27,000 officials has remained stagnant over the past five years, the number of private security guards in the city has crossed the 55,000 mark amid a growing security threat.
The situation has proved a boon for the private security industry in the metropolis where a single policeman protects the lives, property and legitimate interests of 1,524 people on average.
Data shared by the police shows that Karachi enjoys the services of total 26,847 personnel for active policing, while over 125 companies are offering services of some 55,000 private security guards to individuals and organisations according to the figures compiled by the All Pakistan Security Agencies Association (APSAA).
“There are some 55,000 private security guards registered with our companies operating in Karachi,” said Nisar Sarwar, chairman of the APSAA.
“Of the 26,847 policemen, 8,541 are deployed for security purpose [protecting individuals and sensitive installations] and 3,102 personnel are deputed for investigation,” stated the police study.
“Only 14,433 policemen are there to maintain law and order and protect the lives and properties of 22 million people of Karachi. The 14,433 officials work on two shifts of 12 hours each, indicating an average of one policeman for the protection of 1,524 people.”
According to the Police Rules Chapter-2, it said, the total strength of police for watch and ward should not ordinarily exceed the ratio of one constable to 450 people.
