Pakistan will deploy two wings of Federal Constabulary paramilitary force to Balochistan in a bid to bolster security and establish peace in the insurgency-hit region, the Pakistani interior ministry said on Monday.
On Monday, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti presided over a meeting on the situation in the province, during which officials briefed participants on law and order, return of Afghan refugees, and elimination of currency and goods smuggling and extortion.
“A decision was made to seek the services of Federal Constabulary to establish peace and stability in Balochistan,” the interior ministry said in a statement. “Around 3,000 personnel comprising two wings of Federal Constabulary will be deployed in the first phase.”
Officials at Monday’s meeting decided to make the FIA more active in Balochistan, according to the interior ministry.
“Local people will be recruited for all vacant posts,” it said, adding that officials also decided to monitor social media to intensify action against elements involved in propaganda against the state
Naqvi assured the Balochistan government of all possible cooperation from the federation to increase the capacity of Balochistan police.
“We are fully aware of the situation in Balochistan and will provide all possible assistance to establish peace [in the region],” he was quoted as saying.
Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said the provincial government is taking firm steps to eliminate terrorism and restore order. He stressed that ensuring the writ of the state is non-negotiable.
“Today, no highways are being blocked in the name of protests in Balochistan,” Bugti noted, highlighting improved public order due to effective strategies and institutional coordination.
The meeting was attended by Assembly member Mir Zia Langove, Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Hamza Shafqaat, IG Muhammad Tahir Khan, and Principal Secretary to the CM Imran Zarkoon, along with other senior officials.