Rigorous crackdown only solution to terrorism: Balochistan IG

QUETTA: The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Balochistan Moazzam Jah Ansari has said that the only solution to terrorism is a rigorous crackdown and that strict action would be taken to liberate the region from the grip of terrorism and lawlessness.

He made these remarks while talking to media during his visit to the Quetta Press Club on Saturday. Also present were SSP Operations Quetta Muhammad Baloch, President of the Quetta Press Club Abdul Khaliq Rind, President of the Balochistan Union of Journalists Khaleel Ahmed, former president QPC Raza-ur-Rehman, and others.

He emphasized that, following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, advanced weaponry and equipment have fallen into the hands of terrorists, which are now being used in Balochistan.

Moazzam Jah Ansari noted that the current situation in Balochistan is challenging, with terrorists targeting people, police, levies, and military personnel. He stressed that the police will ensure public safety and create a conducive environment for development.

He highlighted that terrorism knows no boundaries and that cooperation with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government and security agencies will be crucial in controlling the movement of terrorists.

He pointed out that after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, terrorists have acquired thermal sensors, night vision equipment, and modern weapons, which are being used in terrorist activities in Balochistan. The only solution to terrorism is a strict crackdown.

The IGP mentioned the reorganization of the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and the provision of equipment as necessary measures to combat terrorism in the province. He urged the public to cooperate with the forces and promised that the police would not only maintain peace but also create an environment where people could benefit from education, employment, and development opportunities.

He called on the people to act as the eyes and ears of the security forces to help combat unemployment and insecurity.

He also mentioned the deployment of 13 officers to address the current 50% shortage of officers in the province. Young officers from other regions will work towards maintaining peace, and no special package is being provided.

Efforts are being made to equalize police salaries with those in other provinces. The chief minister has assured full support, including providing equipment to the police.

In response to a question, he said that a review of Safe City cameras would be installed on Monday to improve continuous monitoring. He noted that the police culture in Balochistan is better compared to other provinces, with crime rates in the province being comparable to those in two police stations in Lahore. Improvements will be made in Safe City cameras, criminal apprehension, investigation, and prosecution systems, with the chief justice of the Balochistan High Court also providing assurances in this regard.

He has instructed his team to adopt a policy of protection and service, promising to work with utmost sincerity, bravery, and effort. He affirmed that the police will work within the bounds of the law to bring offenders to justice and uphold the rule of law in the province. He also acknowledged that media cooperation is essential for the government and institutions to function effectively, as the media provides the public with direction and decision-making opportunities.