Law enforcement agencies’ sacrifices commendable: Ahsan

Islamabad: Like their compatriots elsewhere in the country, the police in the national capital have added a golden chapter in their history, written with blood of their martyrs.

“The Pakistani nation, armed forces, police and other law enforcement agencies (LEAs) have rendered great sacrifices in war against terrorism. Besides, sacrificing thousands of precious lives, the country's economy also suffered losses of more than $100 billion, “Minister for Interior Ahsan Iqbal said while addressing a passing out ceremony of new Counter-Terrorism Force (CTF) here at Islamabad Police Line.

The courageous role played by the security personnel and police has won hearts of people as the brave custodians of law and order prevented many disasters by timely nabbing terrorist elements. The brave policemen of Islamabad, no doubt, had left the scene after performing their specific roles but the perennial mark they left upon the face of society would continue to mould spirits of their successors to follow their path with a renewed commitment and fervour, he added.

Ahsan Iqbal said the successful operation of Pakistan's security forces had weakened networks of terrorists who were on the run. "We made National Action Plan (NAP) and launched a full-fledged operation against terrorists in the country which would continue till complete annihilation of terrorists and extremists," he said.

"Peace is very much important for development as is oxygen necessary for human life," he said and added the societies having instability and insurgency could not meet the pace of progress," he said and added police were not only doing its own duty but also playing a vital role in development of the country.

He said it was the police which performed its duty day and night so that citizens could sleep without any fear. Congratulating the CTF on completion of its training, Ahsan Iqbal said he was pleased that women had also become part of the force. Women, he added, were also playing an active role in fighting against terrorism.

The Minister said selection of the CTF personnel was made on merit, who were imparted training by the army to keep them abreast with modern needs.

He said an anti-riot police force has also been formed to ensure law and order in Islamabad. Ahsan Iqbal has said terrorism is the common enemy of Pakistan and Pakistan wants lasting peace in the region in collaboration with its international partners.

Earlier, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Sultan Azam Temuri said an action plan was being prepared to improve performance of police within minimum time. He said of the total 970 personnel of CTF, first batch of 380 has been passed out. They have been imparted training by the SSG officers. The IGP said 21 vehicles of CTF have been arranged while the remaining 22 would be delivered soon.

Later, Ahsan Iqbal witnessed the parade as well as live demonstration of CTF snipers. Logo of CTF was also awarded to the Minister. IG Islamabad Dr. Sultan Azam Temuri said that according to national action plan in 2016 an independent counter terrorism force was established, in which 970 officers and jawans were sanctioned. in 1st phase 252 constables were recruited while 128 officers from different ranks were taken on deputation from Islamabad Police.