“Pak Army will continue to provide all-out support to K-P Police and other LEAs in enabling them to perform their duties in the newly merged districts,” COAS Gen Asim says
By Asghar Ali Mubarak
BAJAUR: Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir has reaffirmed the Pakistan Army’s unwavering support for the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Police and other law enforcement agencies (LEAs) operating in the newly merged districts along the Afghan border. This pledge was made during his recent visit to Orakzai District, where he was briefed on the ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the Tirah Valley and surrounding areas.
COAS General Munir’s visit and remarks come in the wake of significant unrest among the police forces in southern K-P. The tension erupted following the killing of a police officer who was on duty guarding a polio vaccination team in Bannu. The officer’s death prompted widespread protests across southern K-P, highlighting the increasingly dangerous conditions faced by law enforcement personnel in the region.
In his statement, General Munir emphasized that the Pakistan Army will continue to extend full support to K-P Police and other LEAs to enhance their capabilities and effectiveness. “Pak Army will continue to provide all-out support to K-P Police and other LEAs in enabling them to perform their duties in the newly merged districts,” he said. The support includes assistance in maintaining security and conducting counter-terrorism operations aimed at stabilizing the region.
During his visit to Orakzai, General Munir was briefed on the security situation and the progress of intelligence-based operations designed to combat terrorism and ensure stability. He praised the dedication and hard work of the police and LEAs, highlighting their critical role in the ongoing efforts to secure the region. The COAS’s visit coincided with escalating unrest within the police ranks. Following the killing of the officer in Bannu, police officers staged a sit-in at Maulana Abdul Sattar Shah Bukhari Chowk, which led to a citywide strike and the blocking of major roads.
This protest saw support from various trade organizations and neighboring districts, including Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, and Bajaur, where police officers staged solidarity strikes and protests demanding better security measures. In Bajaur, where a policeman and a polio worker were killed in a targeted attack, local police issued a five-day ultimatum to the government for improved security or face mass resignations.
The COAS also stressed the importance of maintaining peace through continued vigilance and the positive role of local communities in supporting security forces. He highlighted that the cooperation of local populations is crucial for sustaining long-term peace and stability in the region. General Munir’s visit included laying a wreath at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada to honor fallen personnel and was received by the Corps Commander Peshawar.
