Bengaluru/Davanagere: Karnataka Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP) M A Saleem, an IPS officer of 1993 batch, has warned that stringent action will be taken against any police personnel found involved in criminal activities or maintaining links with anti-social elements, stressing that such conduct severely damages the credibility of the police force.
Speaking to reporters during his visit to Davanagere on Tuesday, Saleem said police officers are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
‘Police-Criminal Nexus Will Not Be Tolerated’
Referring to a recent ₹7-crore dacoity case in Bengaluru allegedly involving police personnel, the DGP said the department had already initiated appropriate action.
“When those entrusted with maintaining law and order become involved in crime, it sends a wrong message to society. Such cases are viewed very seriously and strict action will be taken,” he said.
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He added that any police officer found aiding criminals or engaging in unlawful activities would face stringent disciplinary and legal action.
Cybercrime, Financial Fraud and Narcotics Major Challenges
The DG&IGP said the nature of crime is changing rapidly and called upon officers to give greater attention to emerging threats.
He identified the following as key focus areas:
- Cybercrime
- Financial and economic offences
- Narcotics-related crimes
- Organised crime
According to Saleem, these offences require specialised investigation and greater technical expertise compared to conventional crimes.
Review of Crime and Law & Order
Saleem visited Davanagere for the first time after assuming charge as Karnataka’s DG&IGP. During the visit, he reviewed departmental functioning, crime investigations and law-and-order arrangements with senior police officers.
He appreciated the performance of the Davanagere district police, stating that the district was functioning efficiently and that there were no major shortcomings in crime detection or maintenance of law and order.
Housing Facilities for Police Personnel
The DGP also acknowledged the shortage of residential accommodation for police officers and personnel in the district.
Recalling his own tenure in Davanagere, he said he had also lived in rented accommodation and assured that infrastructure needs, including police housing, were being addressed in phases.
Senior Officers Present
The review meeting was attended by:
- B.R. Ravikanthe Gowda, Inspector General of Police, Eastern Range.
- H.T. Shekhar, Superintendent of Police, Davanagere.
- Yashodha Vantagudi, Superintendent of Police.
- Other senior police officers.
The DGP reiterated that maintaining public trust in the police force remains the department’s top priority and warned that misconduct by police personnel would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
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