QUETTA: Newly appoin­ted Inspector General of Balochistan Moazzam Jah Ansari has said the sophisticated weapons and equipment left behind by US troops during their withdrawal from Afghanistan have fallen into the hands of terrorists and these weapons are being used in Khyber Pakhtun­khwa and Balochistan.

Speaking to the media during his visit to Quetta Press Club on Saturday, along with SSP (operations) Muhammad Baloch and other police officers, IG Ansari said the police force lacks access to advanced weapons, including night vision equipment and modern arms, which are being used by terrorists in their attacks.

He said terrorists have thermal sensors, night vision equipment, and modern weapons, following the withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan, and are employing them in terror attacks in Balochistan and KP.

IG Ansari said terrorism knows no boundaries, adding that making cooperation with the KP government and security agencies crucial in curbing terrorist movements.

Newly appointed police chief says force lacks access to advanced weapons

In reply to a question, Mr Ansari, who is serving his second tenure as IG in Balochistan, said: “Intelligence-based, stringent operations are the only effective solution to eradicate terrorism and free the region from its long-standing grip.”

He said 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 by creating a conducive environment for development.

IG Ansari highlighted the reorganisation of the Counter-Terrorism Depart­ment (CTD) and the provision of necessary equipment as crucial steps to combat terrorism in the province effectively. He appealed to the public to collaborate with the forces, assuring that the police would not only ensure peace but also foster an environment conducive to education, employment, and development opportunities.

IG Ansari also announced the deployment of 13 additional officers to mitigate the current 50 per cent shortage of officers in the province.

These young officers from other regions will focus on maintaining peace, without any special package or incentives. Efforts are underway to standardise police salaries with those in other provinces.

Furthermore, the chief minister has pledged full support, including provision of necessary equipment, to strengthen the police force and enhance its effectiveness, he added.

Replying to a question, the IG said a review of the Safe City camera system would be conducted on Monday to enhance continuous monitoring capabilities. He observed that the police culture in Balochistan is more favorable compared to other provinces, with crime rates in the province equivalent to those of just two police stations in Lahore.

IG Ansari pledged improvements in key areas, including Safe City cameras, criminal apprehension, investigation, and prosecution systems, with the Balochistan High Court chief justice offering support and assurances.

He directed his team to adopt a protection and service-oriented policy, committing to work with sincerity, bravery, and dedication. He assured that the police would operate within the law to bring offenders to justice and uphold the rule of law in the province.

Recognising the crucial role of media, IG Ansari emphasised the importance of cooperation between the government, institutions, and media outlets.

He noted that the media provides the public with guidance and informs decision-making, thereby facilitating effective governance.

Published in Dawn, September 15th, 2024