QUETTA, Jan 18: Balochistan police chief Tariq Masood Khosa has announced that a continuous operation will be launched against Al Qaeda and Taliban in the province.

Speaking at his first press conference after taking over the assignment, he termed allegations about Taliban chief Mulla Omar’s presence in Quetta baseless. “Neither Mullah Omar is in Quetta nor is the city the headquarters of Taliban activities,” Mr Khosa said.

“A big operation is being launched against Al Qaeda and Taliban in Quetta and other areas of the province," he announced. The

‘Operation Quetta valley vigil’ would be continuous, he said.

He said police had so far arrested over 400 Afghan suspects in different areas of Balochistan, including the provincial capital, during a campaign against Taliban and most of them had been sent back to their country after interrogation.

He said the remaining 100 suspects would be handed over to the Afghan government after completing formalities.

He said the biggest challenge being faced by the police was rocket attacks, bomb blasts and other terrorist activities. He said the police had prepared a strategy against terrorism.

“We will not allow terrorism in the name of nationalism and strict action will be taken against elements involved in such activities,” he said.

Combating sectarianism, extremism and terrorism was the top priority of Balochistan police, he said.

He said police would ensure security of sensitive national installations, foreigners and top government officials.

He said 32 cases of sectarian violence had occurred in the province during the past two years and police had solved all the cases. Terrorists involved in the incidents, including masterminds, had been arrested and convicted, he said.

He said the whole of the province would come under police control by 2008. Currently, 16 of the 29 districts in the province are under police jurisdiction.

Mr Khosa said seven more districts would come under control during the current year.

He said 10,000 local people would be recruited in Balochistan Constabulary.