QUETTA: Balochistan Inspector General of Police Mohammad Tahir and Chief Collector Customs Masood Ahmed have warned that no hurdle would be tolerated in legal business and trade in the province, stressing that all possible steps would be taken to ensure protection for the business community and transporters.

They gave the assurance during a meeting with the business community, transporters and other stakeholders at the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Saturday. The meeting was also attended by members of the business alliance and action committee.

IGP Tahir said the province was facing a “hybrid war” and stressed that all stakeholders must work together to counter the challenges. He said law enforcement agencies had carried out over 2,000 intelligence-based operations this year, during which 47 security personnel embraced martyrdom and 164 militants were killed.

“Security measures, though sometimes difficult, are necessary for the protection of life and property, especially in view of recent incidents in Quetta,” he said.

Business representatives informed the meeting that thousands of import and export vehicles remained stranded in border areas, including Taftan, Noshki and Quetta, and called for improved security to facilitate trade activities.

The traders also raised concerns over traffic congestion, aerial firing and customs-related issues.

The IGP said efforts were under way to improve the Eagle Force and curb aerial firing through new standard operating procedures. He also said the issue of harassment of Balochistan’s transporters and traders in other provinces would be taken up with the Ministry of Interior.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Collector Customs Masood Ahmed announced that the Baleli checkpost had been abolished and private labourers deployed at customs checkpoints had also been removed following complaints.

He said vehicle confiscations in smuggling cases were being carried out under existing law, adding that legislative changes would be required to amend the process.

Published in Dawn, June 14th, 2026