ISLAMABAD: The Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry strongly criticized the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government’s decision to return bulletproof vehicles supplied by the federal government, terming the move “immature” and a setback in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
The minister said that the bulletproof vehicles were provided to the Inspector General of Police, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to increase the operational capacity of police officers and personnel engaged in anti-terrorism duties.
He noted that the vehicles met international safety standards and were specifically recommended for use in high-risk and counter-terrorism operations.
Furthermore, Chaudhry focused on the fact that the federal government had previously allocated more than Rs600 billion to the KP government for security-related projects.
These included the development of safe cities, establishment of a counter-terrorism department, creation of forensic laboratories, and other critical infrastructure to strengthen the province’s ability to combat terrorism.
Moreover, the minister said it was “ironic and unfortunate” that police officers and officials in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were being left exposed to potential terrorist attacks.
He questioned the utilization of the large funds provided to the province for security expansion, saying that the decision to return the vehicles raised serious concerns about the province’s priorities.
Talal further added that the move “immature and deeply regrettable,” Chaudhry said the vehicles were meant to protect the lives of police personnel who continue to serve on the front lines against terrorism.
He added that such decisions could undermine the collective national effort to ensure peace and security across Pakistan.
The minister confirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in its counter-terrorism operations.
He assured that Islamabad would continue to expand all possible assistance to strengthen law enforcement agencies and help eliminate terrorism from the country.
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The minister’s statements come amid ongoing discussions over the coordination between federal and provincial governments on national security and counter-terrorism measures.
