Dera Division police achieve major gains under RPO Ashfaq Anwar

By A.K Wazir

DERA ISMAIL KHAN: The Dera Division Police have recorded significant progress in law and order, counter-terrorism, police welfare, and infrastructure development over the past year under the leadership of Syed Ashfaq Anwar, Regional Police Officer (RPO) Dera Ismail Khan, officials said.

According to police officials, sustained operational efforts across the division have contributed to improved public security, enhanced morale within the force, and strengthened institutional capacity in the region.

A key focus of the RPO’s strategy has been police welfare. Officials said that 23 orderly rooms were convened at the RPO Office, providing police officers and personnel with a direct forum to raise grievances. A total of 379 officers and jawans participated, while 118 personnel were reinstated into service following the completion of departmental inquiries.

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To recognise frontline performance, RPO Ashfaq Anwar conducted visits to remote police stations and check posts across the Dera Range, including the Nasran Check Post in Tank district, Daraban Police Station, and Khatthi Check Post in Dera Ismail Khan district. Officers and jawans who successfully repelled terrorist threats were awarded cash prizes and commendation certificates.

One of the most critical incidents during the year was the terrorist attack on the Police Training School in Dera Ismail Khan on October 11, 2025. Officials said the RPO personally took command of the operation, leading to the elimination of four terrorists, including a suicide bomber, and the safe evacuation of all trainees. The response was widely praised for its swift coordination and crisis management.

In view of ongoing security challenges, police officials said special attention was given to public safety along major transport routes. A comprehensive security plan was implemented for the CPEC-linked M-14 Motorway, with new police posts established at key locations to improve safety for commuters and commercial traffic.

To strengthen manpower, approval was secured for new police recruitments, including 350 positions in Dera Ismail Khan district and 120 positions in Tank district. Officials said the additional force will enhance policing capacity and help sustain law and order.

Technology-driven policing has also been prioritised. The Safe City Project has been launched in Dera Ismail Khan, while survey work for the project in Tank district has been completed, with implementation expected soon. The initiative aims to improve surveillance, crime prevention, and emergency response.

In addition, development and non-development schemes, including the construction and renovation of police stations and check posts, have been included in annual programmes across the Dera Range. Work has already begun on several approved projects.

Merit-based promotions were also carried out to address long-standing concerns within the force. As a result, 28 head constables were promoted to Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), while 23 ASIs were elevated to the rank of Sub-Inspector.

Officials said the overall performance of the Dera Ismail Khan Range over the past year reflects a coordinated approach to security, welfare, and institutional reform, laying a foundation for sustained peace and public confidence in the region.