SWAT: Regional Police Officer (RPO) Malakand Division Zahid Nawaz Marwat has reaffirmed that protecting the lives and property of the public remains the police’s top priority, warning that no leniency will be shown towards drug dealers and those involved in illegal activities.
Speaking to cabinet members and senior journalists of Swat Press Club, in the presence of District Police Officer Swat Muhammad Umar Khan, the RPO said a major operation against drug trafficking and narcotics was underway. He stressed that individuals involved in destroying the future of young people would face strict action.
He said practical steps were also being taken to improve traffic management, facilitate commuters and remove encroachments to provide better public facilities.
Market Security to Be Strengthened
Zahid Nawaz Marwat said security arrangements in bazaars and markets would be improved to prevent theft and other crimes. CCTV cameras and additional security measures were being introduced to strengthen public safety.
He added that police facilitation staff had been deployed at police stations to guide complainants and address their grievances, with the aim of reducing difficulties faced by citizens.
New Dispute Resolution Councils Under Formation
The RPO said previously established Dispute Resolution Councils (DRCs) across Malakand Division had been dissolved following concerns about alleged misuse of authority by some members and questions regarding their conduct.
He said applications were being invited from eligible and reputable individuals to form new councils. Applicants would undergo proper scrutiny before the new DRCs were established.
The RPO also announced that police officers would visit mosques and local communities to hear public complaints and help resolve them, strengthening relations between the police and local residents.
He added that all possible facilities would be provided to make obtaining driving licences easier.
Zero Tolerance for Bribery and Illegal Vehicles
Marwat said action against bribery would continue and that vehicles operating illegally would not be spared. He reiterated that the police would maintain strict enforcement while working to improve public services.
Appreciating the media’s role, he described journalists as the eyes of society and said they contributed significantly to social reform and improvement. He added that cooperation between the police and media would be further strengthened.
During the meeting, Swat Press Club Chairman Fazal Rahim Khan, Swat Union of Journalists President Shahzad Alam Khan and other office-bearers and senior journalists presented proposals concerning public issues and policing.
The RPO issued instructions to the relevant officials to ensure that the suggestions were implemented.