“Control the market strictly so that the prices of essentials don’t increase in Ramadan,” he said at a video conference from police headquarters in the afternoon.

Under the current circumstances, Benazir said we need to stop the black marketing of products and adulteration of food.

“Take initiative to set up a mobile court if necessary,” he told his officers.

Benazir Ahmed said no irregularities in the distribution of relief materials would be tolerated and ordered policemen to ensure that the relief, TCB products, VGF and OMS facilities reach the people in need.

Thanking the officials of different police units for sending workers to harvest paddy in the haor regions, the IGP said it may be necessary to send more workers.

He directed placing banners in front of vehicles transporting workers and to keep the list of the workers with names and mobile numbers of officers of the respective units in order to make the movement smooth.

The IGP said many people were not staying home and coming out without valid reasons as the country fights to contain transmission of coronavirus. “Unwanted and unnecessary movement of people has to be stopped,” he said.

Benazir told policemen to ensure their own protection and raise awareness about coronavirus. He said treatment is being provided to infected members of the force at the Central Police Hospital. Adequate medical care is also being arranged at other police hospitals.

Apart from this, treatment facilities are being organised at five division of the country. All out measures will be taken for their treatment, the IGP said.

A number of policemen have been diagnosed with coronavirus while discharging duties.

IGP Benazir said police personnel will have to perform their duties while keeping themselves safe. He said sufficient financial subsidy has already been provided to various units for procurement of safety gears.

Also read: Implement lockdown properly across all areas: IGP

​​​​​​​He said many marginalised people could become unemployed in the current situation and many may become involved in crime. Crimes like theft and robbery can increase. Necessary steps have to be taken to suppress them.

He said under the current circumstances, the militants could raise their heads again. “We’ve to be vigilant to check militant activities,” he said.