COAS stresses modern policing, public trust

Calls for inter-agency cooperation, people-centric law enforcement

RAWALPINDI:

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Tuesday underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation, modern policing practices and fostering public trust in law-enforcement personnel.

During a visit to the National Police Academy (NPA) in Islamabad, Field Marshal Asim emphasised that a strong, professional and people-centric police force is indispensable for ensuring internal security and upholding the rule of law.

"The duty of the police to enforce law and order is a sacred trust, and the armed forces will always stand fully with the brave and proud police personnel of Pakistan," the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) quoted Field Marshal Asim as saying while addressing senior police officials.

The ISPR said the army chief acknowledged the supreme sacrifices rendered by police personnel in the face of terrorism, crime and internal security challenges. He also received a briefing on the School for High-Impact Elite Law Enforcement Development (SHIELD), along with ongoing training programmes and initiatives aimed at capacity building and modernisation of the police.

While interacting with cadet assistant superintendents of police (ASPs), Field Marshal Asim highlighted the pivotal role of the police as the first line of defence in safeguarding the lives, property and honour of citizens, the ISPR said.

Addressing inspectors general of police (IGPs), additional IGPs and other senior officers, he again stressed the need for effective inter-agency coordination, adoption of modern policing methods and sustained efforts to build public confidence in law-enforcement institutions, it added.

On the occasion, senior police leadership reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening policing standards, enhancing professional capacity and pursuing necessary institutional reforms to meet contemporary security challenges.

Earlier, Field Marshal Asim was warmly received by the NPA commandant upon arrival. A smartly turned-out police contingent presented a guard of honour. He also laid a wreath at the Police Martyrs' Monument and offered Fateha.

Paying solemn tribute to the Shuhada of the police, Field Marshal Asim honoured those who laid down their lives in the line of duty while safeguarding peace, upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety across the country, the ISPR stated. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry were also present during the visit, it added.

(WITH INPUT FROM APP)