K-P vows full-force action to eliminate terrorism, restore stability

PESHAWAR:

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has vowed to use all available resources to eliminate terrorism and restore stability in the province, according to an official statement issued on Thursday.

The statement was released by the Office of the Press Secretary to Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, a day after the Provincial Apex Committee met for the first time, chaired by the chief minister.

The meeting was attended by provincial ministers, Peshawar Corps Commander Lt Gen Omer Ahmed Bokhari, Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah, Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed, and senior civil, military and law enforcement officials.

At the outset, participants offered prayers for civilians, security forces and law enforcement personnel killed in recent attacks and paid tribute to the martyrs.

According to the statement, the committee discussed the rising incidents of terrorism in the province and reviewed a comprehensive strategy to counter the threat posed by terrorist groups and ensure lasting peace.

Read: Civil-military huddle on K-P security

Officials stressed that the success of any counterterrorism policy depends on close coordination and consultation among political parties, public representatives, community leaders and the federal government.

“The chief minister underlined the provincial government’s commitment to deploy all resources, including the army, police, and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), and said no sacrifice would be spared in the fight against terrorism,” the statement said.

The meeting also outlined a long-term plan to identify and address the root causes of terrorism while restoring public confidence, to unite the government and citizens to safeguard national security and promote development.

Read more: Centre, K-P bridge gaps over merged districts funds

As part of the strategy, areas affected by terrorism will be transformed into model districts with improved governance. The government plans to address deprivation through development initiatives, expanded social services and increased economic opportunities.

A structured programme will provide special packages for security, transport, health, education, employment and other essential services in these districts, the statement said. The government also pledged to ensure the safe and dignified return of residents temporarily displaced by security operations, describing their rehabilitation as key to future peace and prosperity.

“Peace is our foremost priority, and there will be no compromise,” CM Afridi said, adding that the civilian administration, law enforcement agencies and the Pakistan Army were working together to maintain law and order.

“This is a collective struggle, and only through joint efforts can it be won,” he said.