Vigilantism in the district will not be tolerated: ADGP warns

Mangalore, Aug 7: Giving a clear and stern message to culprits in the background of increased cattle thefts in the twin districts of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) M N Reddy said that vigilantism of any kind would not be tolerated by the police department.

Interacting with the media after reviewing the law and order situation in the twin districts here on Wednesday, he said that no group of persons should take the law into their hands. “Strict instructions have been given to police officials in this regard, and strictest action will be taken against offenders. Vigilantism also amounts to dacoity and rioting, and hence will not be tolerated. Preventive action has been organised in and around the region. Law will follow its due course,” he said, adding that citizens need not have apprehension over such thefts.

He said that to improve the law and order situation and curb the number of crimes in the district, patrolling system has been organised in the Western Range, especially around Mangalore. Check-points will be set up wherever it is necessary to check illegal cattle trafficking, he said.

He clarified that the police force or the department was under no pressure from any authority or group.

Speaking on the growing number of underworld activities, he said that the police force was involved in collecting information on rowdy-sheeters. The police officials have been stressed to take apt legal action on rowdies, and make sure that rowdy activities are curbed, he said.

Shortage of staff is a permanent problem

With regard to vacancies in the police force, he said that there were about 18,000 posts vacant in the police department. In 2-3 years, the situation of vacancies will improve. No police force will ever be sufficient, and if new police stations are set up, necessary requirement will be filled, he said.

Addressing other issues, he said that the department will have to continually educate the personnel on Juvenile Justice Act. “We will have to work professionally to avoid problematic situations, atleast reduce their intensity. Public has to be constantly in touch with the force. We are going to take a serious look on regular beats henceforth, through which the police can be in constant touch with the public. It is a challenge for us as there is shortage of force,” he said.