98 terrorism suspects rejected by courts: DIG

Syed Adnan

PESHAWAR: In a crucial press conference held at the Central Police Headquarters in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the DIG Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Imran Shahid, revealed that 98 suspects involved in terrorism-related incidents have been rejected by the courts in the province. During the conference, the DIG CTD said the improved investigation procedures, extending custody periods from 7 to 40 days, to ensure the thorough examination of cases.

Highlighting the surge in terrorism incidents in southern districts, DIG Imran noted the rising challenges and the demand for extortion in various business sectors, particularly in the Bajaur region, where businesses are facing demands totaling in the millions. This year alone, 1093 FIRs were registered for terrorism-related incidents.

While acknowledging a shortage of officers in the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), DIG Imran Shahid assured that FIRs and investigative processes are being handled meticulously. The southern districts, being border regions, face heightened incidents of terrorism, requiring a robust response.

Imran Shahid attributed a decline in terrorism and crime rates to the expulsion of illegal Afghan immigrants, stating that since their evacuation, instances of terrorism and crime have significantly decreased.

He revealed that in the past year, 2095 cases against terrorists were filed, resulting in the arrest of 726 individuals.

Security forces also neutralized 255 terrorists in confrontations, while specialized teams equipped with modern weaponry have been established in each region.

In the ongoing fight against terrorism, the province witnessed the sacrifice of 184 officers and personnel, with 408 sustaining injuries.

The government, in its commitment to combat terrorism, has provided law enforcement agencies with advanced equipment for tracking suspects.

The DIG CTD expressed optimism, stating that in the coming years, with the aid of new tools and strategies, the province will witness a substantial reduction in terrorism incidents.