The government is blocking terrorists’ digital networks, curbing illegal SIMs, and boosting inter-agency coordination to strengthen national security.
ISLAMABAD: In a bold move to curb terrorism, the government has announced a sweeping crackdown on the digital and operational networks of banned organizations. Social media accounts linked to terrorists are set to be blocked, while illegal SIM card usage is also under the scanner.
The initiative, in collaboration with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), aims to dismantle the online and communication infrastructure supporting extremist groups. Provincial authorities have been tasked with implementing a unified strategy to ensure success.
These decisive measures were discussed during a high-level meeting of the National Action Plan (NAP) Coordination Committee. Officials revealed that intelligence-based operations conducted this year have resulted in the elimination of 206 terrorists, with 7,984 such operations carried out up to October.
To strengthen the fight against terrorism, a National Fusion Centre has been established for better coordination among security agencies. Enhanced collaboration between the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) and provincial authorities is also underway.
In an upcoming session, top officials from PTA and related institutions will present advanced mechanisms to combat terrorism and its support networks.
Recent terrorist incidents in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) drew sharp condemnation during the meeting. Authorities pledged to enhance the capabilities of Counter Terrorism Forces (CTFs) in these regions with full federal support. Additionally, police and Frontier Constabulary (FC) forces across the provinces will be equipped with cutting-edge technology to boost their operational readiness.
The federal government has directed all law enforcement agencies to submit their resource needs within seven days to the Ministry of Interior. Reforms in NACTA are already in motion to empower the authority as the central force in counterterrorism.
Security measures for Chinese nationals in Pakistan were also reviewed. Officials emphasized the implementation of a foolproof plan for their protection. Additionally, stronger support for the Coast Guard was announced to combat narcotics smuggling along the coastline.
A detailed briefing from NACTA’s National Coordinator, Khalid Khattak, outlined the progress on key counterterrorism strategies, including the establishment of a Counter-Terrorism Authority in Islamabad.
As the nation grapples with persistent security challenges, the latest measures underscore the government’s resolve to dismantle terror networks and restore peace.
