Tightening security: Government finalises responsibilities of Anti-Terrorist Force

Will remain on standby to act within minutes of an emergency.

PESHAWAR: Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Home and Tribal Affairs Department has finalised the functions of the Anti-Terrorist Force (ATF), which will be responsible for intelligence, operation and investigation of terrorism cases in the province.

ATF personnel will not perform ordinary policing duties, but will be the lead force against terrorism, said a senior government official on Monday. He added the force will receive incentives and remain on standby to act within minutes of an emergency.

The ATF will have two departments, a Research and Analysis unit and a technical wing.



“They will investigate high-profile cases on priority basis and will be equipped accordingly. Sniffer dogs and dog handlers will be commissioned in addition to the provision of explosive detectors for the force,” he said.

The official said a special prison security force is being trained and equipped with automatic rifles, bullet-proof helmets and vests, to protect central jails across the province. “We are going to establish two new police lines in Swabi and Lakki Marwat as well as model police stations in Peshawar and Mardan. [We] are especially focusing on training the police force along scientific lines,”
he said.

The official added Home Secretary Akhtar Ali Shah has also approved the constitution of a committee headed by IG Prisons Zakir Hussain Afridi. Three other officials will be its members, including deputy secretary home department, Elite Training School principal and a section officer.

“Work is underway to chalk out a special plan for the establishment of the government’s writ in Malakand division, with the help of European Union and other donors.”

Published in The Express Tribune, October 22^nd, 2013.