Karachi Police Chief Orders Officers to Comply with Traffic Laws or Face Consequences

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On July 16, 2025, Karachi Police Chief Javed Alam Odho issued a strong directive to all police personnel, emphasizing strict compliance with traffic laws. He warned that officers found violating these laws, regardless of their rank, would face departmental action. This directive aims to restore public trust and reinforce internal accountability within the Karachi Police, particularly in the enforcement of road safety regulations.

The move comes amid growing public frustration over traffic violations, including by law enforcement officers. According to Daily Times, Odho stated that accountability must begin within the police itself. “Strict accountability begins at home,” he said, urging senior officers to monitor their subordinates and ensure enforcement without exceptions. He highlighted common violations such as the use of fake number plates, failure to wear helmets, and other infractions committed by police officers. Field units were instructed to report and take action against any personnel involved in such offenses.

This internal directive supports broader enforcement efforts by the Karachi Traffic Police (KTP). According to Times of Karachi, more than 8,124 vehicles were seized between June 10 and July 15, 2025, for violations including the use of illegal or unregistered number plates and lacking proper documentation.

Public sentiment on social media platform X has largely supported Odho’s tough stance. An account named @TOKCityOfLights reposted his directive, calling for increased transparency in law enforcement. However, some critics remain skeptical. Monem Zafar Khan, the Karachi chief of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), previously criticized KTP’s aggressive enforcement tactics, referring to the over 52,000 traffic challans reportedly issued in recent months. According to Business Recorder, he argued that the sheer volume of fines reflects a punitive rather than corrective approach.

Additionally, social activist Faizan Hussain filed a petition in the Sindh High Court, challenging the burden of heavy traffic fines on citizens. He claimed that excessive penalties during a period of high inflation disproportionately impact lower-income residents, and called for a more balanced and just enforcement strategy.

Chief Odho’s directive represents a significant internal shift toward restoring the rule of law. By holding officers accountable, he aims to set an example for wider compliance across Karachi. In a city known for traffic congestion and regulatory chaos, the move is being seen as a serious step toward improving both road safety and public confidence in law enforcement.