The Excise and Narcotics Control Department in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), which is on the front lines against drug trafficking, is facing a critical manpower shortage that is reportedly undermining its operational effectiveness. In response to this security gap, the department has urgently requested the services of the Police Elite Force from the provincial government.
Sources indicate that the KP Excise Department has officially written to the Home Department, detailing the staff deficit across its seven dedicated Narcotics Control Police Stations. The department specifically requested the immediate deputation of 84 police officers to fill these crucial roles.
The staffing shortfall is said to be directly impeding the performance and reach of the Narcotics Control Wing. The Home Department, recognizing the urgency of the matter, has conditionally approved the request. The condition stipulates that the provision of police personnel must not compromise regular police operations, and concurrently, the Excise Department must finalize its internal, permanent recruitment processes.
KP Minister for Excise, Fakhar Jahan, confirmed the situation, stating that while comprehensive anti-drug operations are continuing across the province and internal recruitment efforts are underway, the request for additional police personnel was made specifically to ensure more robust and effective action against the persistent drug menace.
