Security needs: Shahbaz names Zafar Iqbal Awan as SPU head

Awan, officer of Police Service Pakistan who was earlier FIA Islamabad zone director, was named as first DIG of unit.

ISLAMABAD:

Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has appointed Zafar Iqbal Awan as the head of the Specialised Protection Unit (SPU), which will oversee the protection needs of foreigners in the province, officials said.

Awan, a grade-20 officer of Police Service Pakistan who was earlier Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Islamabad zone director, was named as the first deputy inspector general (DIG) of the unit. The SPU has become operational in the wake of Awan’s appointment.

Officials said the Punjab government had been on the lookout for a suitable police officer for the post. The provincial government was keen to install someone who has operational command experience, they said.

The objective of establishing the SPU is providing foolproof security to foreign engineers and technicians working on major projects across the province.  Providing such security would be essential for restoring the confidence of foreign companies, encouraging them to invest in the country without any fear.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 27^th, 2014.