In times of mayhem: ‘Security forces in Swat to withdraw following peace’

K-P IGP reaffirms the role of local defence committees in battling terrorism.

KABAL:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) IGP Nasir Khan Durrani on Tuesday said security forces had been deployed in Swat on a temporary basis and will move out once durable peace had been ensured in the valley. Durrani was addressing a police darbar in Kabal which was also attended by a large number of local elders.

K-P police has the potential to tackle any situation, geared towards the complete elimination of terrorists from the area. “With the help of local village defence committees, police can carry out action against any insurgency,” added Durrani.



The IGP also allowed defence committee members to carry licensed weapons. However, he warned them against misusing their powers against innocent members of society.

“Instead of taking advantage of their power and blackmailing others, members of defence committees should fulfil their responsibilities fairly,” he urged.

Durrani spoke of the importance of the jirga system in Pukhtun societies, saying it must be kept intact as its existence is vital to ensure peace and resolve numerous social issues. “Reduction in crime rates has been observed to a great extent in Swat because of the active role jirgas play.”

All possible entrance routes for terrorists would be sealed by the police force and defence committee members, said Durrani. “Targeted operations will be launched in villages where necessary, with the help of defence committee members,” said the IGP.

“Due to the current mayhem, 179 police stations have no building of their own; these can only be constructed once peace is restored.”

Durrani said the tenure of the special police force will be extended to five years. “Rs3 million will be given as compensation to bereaved family members of every martyr in the police force. Free education will be given to their young children, while their grown-up offspring will be given employment in police if they so wish,” assured the IGP.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 13^th,2013.