Inspector General of Police (IGP) Zulfiqar Hameed undertook a strategic visit to the border outposts between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, including sensitive areas such as Dara Tang and Koh-i-Maidan, to assess ongoing threats posed by the banned outfit Fitnah al-Khawarij (a term the state used to describe TTP terrorists).
During the visit, the IGP issued clear directives to strengthen the infrastructure of border check posts, enhance inter-provincial security coordination, and make use of modern surveillance technology such as drones, thermal scopes, and advanced detection equipment to monitor and neutralise any suspicious militant activity in the region.
The IGP conducted an aerial survey of the border belt, specifically observing locations believed to be hideouts of the Fitnah al-Khawarij. He ordered the deployment of additional personnel, particularly at high-risk posts like Dara Tang and the Old Fort Check Post, which cover areas historically exploited by militants for cross-border movement and shelter.
Focus on Counter-Terror Preparedness
IGP Zulfiqar Hameed emphasized that all police outposts must be fully equipped and trained to deal with the evolving threat landscape, especially in zones vulnerable to TTP infiltration. He directed that front-line officers be trained in modern counter-terrorism tactics, with logistical and technical support made available on an urgent basis.
He reiterated the commitment to use all available resources to secure the border regions from terrorism, smuggling, illegal movement, and organised crime.
Joint Security Mechanism in Focus
In detailed discussions held during the visit, security officials from both Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, including Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) personnel, reviewed a joint action mechanism to respond more effectively to shared challenges in the border regions.
The IGP met with personnel from Al-Buraq and Elite Force units stationed at various posts. He personally interacted with officers, shaking hands with each and listening to their operational challenges. He issued on-the-spot directives for resolving key concerns raised by the deployed forces.
The visit was attended by senior police officers from Bannu, Kohat, Sargodha, Lakki Marwat, Karak, and Mianwali, along with CTD officials from both provinces, reflecting the significance of inter-agency coordination in the fight against Fitnah al-Khawarij and other cross-border threats.
