SWAT/SWABI: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed has lauded the sacrifices of the police force in Malakand division, particularly in Swat, for restoring peace and stability in the region.

Speaking at a police darbar held at Javed Iqbal Shaheed Police Lines here the other day, he praised the bravery of officers, who stood against terrorism and contributed to restoration of law and order.

The event was attended by police officers and personnel from across the division.

IGP Hameed paid tribute to the martyrs and expressed solidarity with their families. “Their unparalleled sacrifices will never be forgotten,” he said, urging the force to adopt proactive policing strategies to nip crime in the bud and to ensure effective operations against criminals.

Lauds sacrifices of force for peace in Swat

He instructed the personnel to uphold integrity and hard work in their professional duties, stressing that welfare of the police force remained a top priority. “We are in active negotiations with the provincial government to raise policemen’s salaries, and God willing, we will soon bring them on par with those of Punjab police,” he added.

The police chief also pledged to address longstanding issues facing the force, including staff shortages.

He said modern equipment was being provided to the force to enhance its operational capacity.

During the darbar, officers complained about lack of promotions.

Responding to a constable’s appeal regarding medical treatment for his children, he announced immediate financial assistance of Rs2 million.

To improve training facilities, IGP Hameed revealed plans to upgrade the police training school in Swat to college status, allowing lower-level courses to be conducted locally. “This will reduce dependency on the Hangu Training College for Malakand region recruits, with future courses also to be held in Buner. Earlier in the day, the IGP inaugurated a newly-constructed Police Martyrs’ Memorial at Kabal Police Lines.

In a separate meeting with members of the dispute resolution councils and public liaison committees, the IGP praised their voluntary services, describing them as unsung heroes, who dedicated their time selflessly for the welfare of the public.

Meanwhile, the provincial police chief also visited district Swabi where he inaugurated the newly-built Zaida police station, said an official statement issued here.

The police chief, accompanied by district police officer Swabi Muhammad Azhar Khan and Regional Police Officer Najeebur Rehman Bhagwi, was briefed about the facilitaies being provided to the general public at the Sahulat Markaz besides also interacted with the complainants, it said.

It added that the IGP met members of the dispute resolution councils and public liason committee.

In his address on the occasion, he said strong coordination between police and the general public was imperative for timely resolution of issues.

He said victory in the war against militancy was impossible without the community’s assistance, adding that besides other resources, he was trying for providing best weapons and buildings to the police.

Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2025