In a major step toward modernizing law enforcement operations and strengthening counter-terrorism capabilities, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police has been equipped with advanced drone technology to improve aerial surveillance, intelligence-based operations, and rapid response against security threats.
A total of 76 state-of-the-art surveillance drones have been distributed among various districts and specialized police units across the province. The initiative aims to enhance the operational capacity of the police force by integrating modern technology into counter-terrorism efforts, crime prevention strategies, and emergency response mechanisms.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Zulfiqar Hameed formally handed over the advanced drone systems to representatives from 27 districts and seven police units during a special ceremony attended by senior police leadership and representatives of various operational wings.
The distributed equipment includes advanced DJI Mavic 4T Surveillance Drones, while Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) units in highly sensitive districts have additionally been provided with DJI Matrice 400 RTK drones equipped with advanced thermal imaging technology for specialized counter-terrorism operations, aerial monitoring, and high-risk missions.
The ceremony was attended by senior police officials, including Additional Inspectors General, Deputy Inspectors General, District Police Officers, CTD representatives, Special Branch officials, Elite Force personnel, Special Security Unit (SSU) representatives, Frontier Reserve Police (FRP), Police Training College Hangu, Elite Police Training Centre (EPTC) representatives, and other senior officers.
Addressing the gathering, IGP Zulfiqar Hameed emphasized that adapting the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police to modern technological requirements is a top priority. He stated that the introduction of advanced thermal drone technology would significantly enhance the effectiveness of security operations, particularly in challenging environments and difficult terrain.
The IGP highlighted that the newly acquired drone systems would provide substantial support in:
- Counter-terrorism operations and intelligence-based missions
- Search and strike operations
- Aerial surveillance of sensitive locations
- Monitoring of large public gatherings and events
- Disaster management and emergency rescue operations
- Protection of public life and property
He further stated that the deployment of thermal imaging-equipped drones would significantly improve the police force’s ability to detect and track suspicious movements, particularly during nighttime operations, thereby enhancing operational precision and effectiveness against hostile elements.
According to the IGP, these modern drones possess exceptional capabilities, including extended flight range, high-speed performance, and the ability to carry additional payloads, making them valuable assets for diverse operational requirements.
He stressed that technology-driven policing has become an essential requirement of modern law enforcement and that all available resources are being utilized to transform the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police into a technologically advanced and highly capable force.
The IGP further stated that modern surveillance systems would improve operational readiness, strengthen rapid response capabilities, and enhance the safety of police officers and personnel engaged in challenging missions. Alongside the provision of advanced equipment, specialized training programs are also being arranged to ensure that officers and personnel can effectively utilize these technological resources.
IGP Zulfiqar Hameed directed officers of the concerned districts and units to ensure the effective deployment of these drones for counter-terrorism operations, crime prevention, surveillance of sensitive areas, and protection of citizens. He emphasized that the technology should be utilized efficiently to achieve operational objectives and further strengthen public security.
The 76 advanced drones were distributed among representatives from the following districts and units: Peshawar, Khyber, Nowshera, Charsadda, Mardan, Swabi, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar, Haripur, Swat, Shangla, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Bajaur, Buner, Lower Chitral, Kohat, Hangu, Kurram, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, Tank.
Special Security Unit (SSU), Elite Force, Special Branch, Frontier Reserve Police (FRP), Police Training College Hangu, and Elite Police Training Centre (EPTC) Nowshera.
The integration of advanced drone technology marks another significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the capabilities of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police. Through modernization, specialized training, and technology-based policing, the force aims to further improve its ability to respond to emerging security challenges and ensure the safety and security of the people of the province.
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