Kalaburagi – In a significant move to tackle increasing crime and ensure officer safety, assistant sub-inspectors (ASIs) on 24-hour patrol in Kalaburagi have been mandated to carry pistols. The decision comes in the wake of a recent armed robbery in Bidar, where ATM cash handlers were shot.

Following directives from the DG-IGP, both the rural and urban police departments in Kalaburagi have equipped ASIs with pistols during patrol duties, including 112 Emergency Response Support System vehicles and highway patrols—marking a first for officers of this rank.

Out of 241 ASIs in the district, 147 from the rural force and 94 from the urban unit have been issued firearms. All officers underwent shooting training in Kalaburagi. The move aims to empower ASIs to protect themselves and intervene more effectively, including disabling fleeing suspects by targeting their legs if necessary.

Kalaburagi City Police Commissioner Sharanappa SD also announced enhanced security at banks and ATMs. New guidelines require high-resolution CCTV installations at entry points, burglar alarms, motion sensors, and deployment of trained, police-verified security staff. Cash-in-transit firms must also ensure their personnel are armed and certified.

Officials stress that these steps address growing incidents of violence during suspect apprehension and protect frontline officers from harm during hostile confrontations.