Security measures: ‘KPF being formed to combat terrorism’

New force will comprise 200 personnel

MANSEHRA: The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to constitute Karakoram Police Force (KPF) to ensure security of passengers travelling between Jhari Kass, Haripur to Chilas border of Gilgit-Baltistan.

This was said by Mansehra District Police Officer Ahsan Saifullah while speaking to journalists at Cadet College Batrasi on Saturday. During his visit to the institute, the DPO reviewed the exercise of police commandos who took part in a mock operation against terrorists. ASP Sonia Khan was also present on the occasion.

Initially, the force will comprise 200 police commandos, including retired army personnel, who would be tasked with providing foolproof security to commuters.



Speaking about the new force, Saifullah said recruitment in KPF has begun and would be completed shortly.

“In order to ensure effective surveillance and security, the strength of KPF would be increased to 600 personnel in future,” he said.

“The force will patrol Karakoram Highway (KKH) and the proposed route for China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Police posts will be established at every 10 kilometres to ensure better monitoring.”

According to the DPO, the personnel will be equipped with latest vehicles and modern weapons.

About the security of educational institutions, Saifullah said the police was fully prepared and capable of protecting the life of citizens and defeating the terrorists.

Past incidents

On February 28, 2012, at least 18 people were killed and eight wounded on KKH near Harban Nala,120 kilometres away from district headquarters in Kohistan. The attack took place when gunmen opened fire on the bus which was en route to Gilgit from Rawalpindi with 39 passengers on board. The bus was owned by a private bus service.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 31^st, 2016.