Efforts underway to reestablish police offices

By Bishnu Prasad Pokharel,Damak, Sept. 19: Police stations in Jhapa that were displaced during the protests organised by the Janajati National Group (JNG) are now beginning to be reestablished. 

Local governments have been demanding the immediate restoration of police offices that were displaced after vehicles were set on fire and weapons were looted.

During festival seasons, as incidents of theft and robbery increase, pressure has grown to restore police stations. Rejina Bhattarai, Deputy Mayor of Damak Municipality, said that a search has begun for suitable locations for police officers who were displaced after the area police office in Damak was attacked and looted.

It has been planned to temporarily allow the police to use the newly constructed but vacant building of the Agronomic Vegetable Market in Ward No. 7 of Damak and provide vehicles immediately needed for operations. She noted that this preparation was made because the absence of police has left residents feeling very insecure.

On Wednesday evening, a team including Koshi Province Police Chief Ishwar Karki and Jhapa District Police Chief Rajan Limbu inspected the site. Rajan Limbu said that, following a decision through the District Security Committee, immediate steps will be taken to reestablish the police station here.

Meanwhile, Koshi Province Police Chief Karki said that there is a need to establish a well-organised detention facility and that other structures could also be used.

He emphasised that those who damage property or engage in criminal activities under the pretext of protests will not be spared. He affirmed that the police are always with the public, regardless of circumstances.

“We are making every possible effort to reestablish the displaced police stations and ensure a sense of security for the people,” he said. He expressed confidence that local governments and communities will assist the police and clarified that the police have not neglected the protection of life and property.

Across Koshi Province, including Jhapa, 24 police stations have been completely destroyed, while 33 police stations have suffered partial damage. A total of 114 police personnel were injured.