By Aishma Gul
“The strength of a nation lies in the security it offers to its people.” This quote reflects the dedication and success of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Police, whose outstanding efforts in 2024 have played a key role in maintaining peace, safety, and justice in a region often affected by terrorism and crime. Notably, despite the poor attention of the KP government and allegations of bad governance, the KP Police have demonstrated remarkable resilience and coordination with the armed forces to combat the war on terrorism. The annual report provides an overview of their work, covering anti-terrorism operations, crime management, drug enforcement, and community outreach. Let’s take a closer look at these significant accomplishments.
Anti-Terrorism Operations
The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of KP has been working tirelessly to reduce the threat of terrorism, a challenge that has persisted due to the province’s proximity to Afghanistan and the presence of multiple terrorist groups.
CTD Successes
In 2024, the CTD achieved significant success, neutralizing 270 terrorists and arresting 802 individuals involved in terrorism. Among those captured were 32 high-profile targets, each with bounties on their heads. Of these, 13 terrorists were killed and 19 were arrested. These operations significantly weakened terrorist organizations, including notorious groups like the TTP Gandapur Group and the Mohsin Qadir Group.
This success highlights the CTD’s effectiveness in weakening the operational strength of terrorist groups that have long affected the region. Arresting key members of these groups is a major step toward dismantling their networks.
Foiled Terrorist Attacks
Along with arrests, the CTD managed to prevent several major terrorist attacks. By intercepting suicide bombers and stopping bombings in Peshawar, one of the most vulnerable cities in KP, the department showcased its ability to identify and neutralize threats before they could harm civilians.
Weapon Seizures
Another major achievement was the seizure of a large stash of weapons. The police recovered 7 suicide vests, 87 AK-47 rifles, and 4,470 rounds of ammunition, which could have been used in various attacks. This demonstrates the CTD’s proactive approach not only in stopping attacks but also in reducing the flow of illegal weapons into the hands of terrorists and criminals.
The large scale of weapons recovered shows just how serious the problem of arms smuggling is in the region. Strengthening border security and involving local communities in crime prevention can help address this challenge further.
Crime Reduction
KP Police also made notable progress in reducing general crime through effective policing and crime prevention.
General Crime Management
The police registered 211,828 FIRs, resulting in the arrest of 227,094 suspects. While the number of cases related to personal disputes and murders increased slightly, crimes like robbery, car theft, extortion, and illegal weapons smuggling saw a significant drop. This indicates that KP Police’s focus on improving crime detection, increasing patrols, and engaging with local communities is beginning to show positive results.
Recovery of Looted Goods
In a particularly commendable achievement, KP Police recovered goods worth over PKR 1.12 billion, returning them to their rightful owners. This highlights their commitment to ensuring justice for victims and helping restore stolen property.
Drug Enforcement
KP has long been a hotspot for narcotics trafficking, but the police have made strong strides in addressing this issue in 2024.
Drugs Seized
The police seized a total of 28,097 kg of drugs, including 3,240 kg of methamphetamine (Ice), 1,695 kg of heroin. 22,575 kg of hashish, 587 kg of opium and 23,566 liters of alcohol.
These seizures are a testament to the KP Police’s commitment to fighting the drug trade. However, the volume of drugs recovered indicates the scale of the issue. To address this, cooperation with anti-narcotics agencies, public awareness campaigns, and better rehabilitation services are all necessary to break the drug supply chain in the region.
National Action Plan (NAP)
The National Action Plan (NAP), which was introduced after the 2014 Peshawar APS attack, has been a crucial part of Pakistan’s fight against terrorism. The KP Police has been an important player in the implementation of NAP.
Search-and-Strike Operations
The KP Police carried out 12,601 search-and-strike operations in 2024. These efforts led to the arrest of 67,983 suspects and the recovery of 15,801 weapons and 454,525 rounds of ammunition. The frequency of these operations shows the police’s dedication to preventing terrorism and violent crime.
Snap Check Posts
In addition to operations, the police established 81,433 snap check posts. This led to the arrest of 102,952 suspects and the recovery of 24,566 firearms. These measures have helped block the movement of criminals and terrorists within KP.
Welfare and Training
A successful police force is built on the welfare and development of its officers, and in 2024, KP Police made strides in this area.
Martyrs’ Families
The police increased the recruitment quota for the families of martyrs from 5% to 12.5%, hiring 281 children of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. This not only honors the sacrifice of fallen officers but also helps support their families.
Training and Development
A total of 12,432 police personnel underwent specialized training in various areas. This ensures that the force remains capable of tackling modern-day challenges effectively.
Financial Support
In 2024, the KP Police Welfare Fund provided over PKR 44.44 crore to support officers and their families. This financial aid was used for medical, educational, and funeral expenses, as well as scholarships and dowries for the families of martyrs.
Security Innovations
The KP Police also introduced new technologies and strategies to improve security and public safety.
Command and Control Centers
In 2024, modern Command and Control Centers were set up across 23 districts. These centers use advanced surveillance systems to monitor crime and provide real-time data for decision-making. This helps the police respond more efficiently to emergencies.
Security Unit
A new 10,000-strong Security Unit was created to provide enhanced protection in urban areas. Headed by a senior DIG-ranked officer, this force plays a vital role in reducing the risk of terrorism and violent crime.
Community Outreach
KP Police worked on improving its relationship with the community, which is essential for building trust and ensuring public safety.
Traffic Awareness Campaigns
The police educated 70,000 people, particularly students, about traffic laws. They also distributed over 1,000 helmets as part of road safety initiatives. This is part of a broader effort to reduce road accidents and improve safety on the roads.
Additionally, initiatives like the Ababeel Squad played a crucial role in responding to street crimes, handling 58,740 emergency calls.
Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs)
The police resolved 3,452 out of 3,715 cases through Dispute Resolution Councils, which work to settle disputes without resorting to violence. This initiative helps maintain social harmony and peace within communities.
These outreach programs reflect a shift toward community-oriented policing. By resolving conflicts and supporting citizens, the KP Police have strengthened public trust. These initiatives, if continued, will further improve the relationship between the police and the communities they serve.
Heroic Sacrifices
The KP Police’s dedication is shown in the sacrifices made by its officers. In 2024, 149 officers were martyred, and 232 were injured in the line of duty. Their bravery and selflessness underline the dangers of policing in a volatile region.
District-Level Highlights
At the district level, the KP Police achieved several successes:
Peshawar: The prevention of major suicide bombings was a notable success in this high-risk city.
Mardan: A crackdown on drug cartels resulted in the dismantling of several trafficking networks.
Swat: Police operations in Swat successfully dismantled illegal networks, contributing to stability.
DI Khan: High-profile arrests were made through counterterrorism operations despite the difficult security situation.
The 2024 performance report of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police highlights a force that is not only responsive but committed to securing the region from terrorism, crime, and unrest. Their comprehensive approach—ranging from counterterrorism efforts and welfare programs to community outreach—has positioned the KP Police as a symbol of hope for the people of the province. As they continue to build on these successes, the path toward a safer, more peaceful Khyber Pakhtunkhwa looks promising.