Army Chief Supports KP Police in Orakzai Against Terrorism

The security situation in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), has been a pressing concern for both the government and the citizens. With the rise of terrorism and militant activities, law enforcement agencies, especially the KP police, have been at the forefront of combating these threats. Recently, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir visited Orakzai district, where he expressed strong support for the KP police and other law enforcement agencies in their fight against terrorism.

During his visit, General Munir praised the efforts of the KP police and highlighted the military's commitment to providing all-out support to these law enforcers, particularly in the newly merged districts of the province. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that the army chief's remarks came after he met with troops who had participated in recent counter-terrorism operations in the Tirah Valley. He stated, "Pakistan Army will continue to provide all-out support to KP police and other LEAs in enabling them to perform their duties in newly merged districts." This statement underscores the military's role in bolstering the capabilities of local law enforcement.

Moreover, General Munir emphasized the importance of ongoing capacity building for law enforcement agencies. He acknowledged the critical support from the local population, noting that their cooperation is vital for maintaining peace in the region. This recognition of community involvement is essential, as it fosters trust and collaboration between security forces and civilians.

In a related development, police in Lakki Marwat district recently ended a five-day sit-in protest against the increasing number of terrorist attacks targeting law enforcement personnel. The protest highlighted the urgent need for enhanced security measures, as many policemen have lost their lives in recent attacks. Following the resolution of the protest, roads in the district, including the Indus Highway, were reopened to the public, signaling a return to normalcy.

The rise in militant attacks in Pakistan, particularly since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan in 2021, has raised alarms. The Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) reported a significant increase in security incidents, with attacks rising from 38 in July to 59 in August. This surge included 29 attacks in KP, 28 in Balochistan, and two in Punjab, indicating a widespread security challenge.

During his visit, General Munir received a comprehensive briefing on the overall security situation and ongoing intelligence-based counter-terrorism operations. He commended the high morale and readiness of the officers and troops to respond effectively to various threats. The army chief reiterated the commitment to defeating terrorist groups and maintaining the hard-earned peace achieved through the sacrifices of the nation.

The commitment shown by the military and law enforcement agencies in Pakistan is commendable, especially in the face of rising terrorism. The collaboration between the army, police, and local communities is crucial for ensuring safety and stability in the region. As the situation evolves, it is imperative for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and united in their efforts to combat terrorism and protect the peace that has been so dearly earned.