Balochistan IGP, customs chief assure traders on security, facilitation

QUETTA: Balochistan Inspector General of Police Mohammad Tahir and Chief Collector Customs Masood Ahmed told traders and transporters on Saturday that legal trade in the province would not be allowed to face obstructions, and said steps would be taken to safeguard the business community and goods carriers.

The assurances were given during a meeting at the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry attended by business representatives, transporters, other stakeholders, and members of the business alliance and action committee.

During the meeting, IGP Tahir said Balochistan was facing a hybrid war and called for coordination among all stakeholders to deal with the situation. He said law enforcement agencies had conducted more than 2,000 intelligence-based operations so far this year, in which 47 security personnel were martyred and 164 militants were killed.

Referring to the security environment, the police chief said protective measures could at times be difficult but were essential to protect lives and property, particularly after recent incidents in Quetta.

“Security measures, though sometimes difficult, are necessary for the protection of life and property, especially in view of recent incidents in Quetta,” he said.

Traders raise transport and border concerns

Representatives of the business community told the meeting that thousands of import and export vehicles were stuck in border regions, including Taftan, Noshki and Quetta. They asked for stronger security arrangements to help trade activity continue more smoothly.

The traders also highlighted traffic congestion, aerial firing and customs-related issues. In response, the IGP said work was under way to strengthen the Eagle Force and that new standard operating procedures were being introduced to curb aerial firing.

He added that the matter of alleged harassment of Balochistan transporters and traders in other provinces would be raised with the Ministry of Interior.

Customs announces changes at checkpoints

Chief Collector Customs Masood Ahmed told participants that the Baleli checkpost had been removed. He also said private labourers working at customs checkpoints had been withdrawn after complaints were received.

On the issue of vehicle seizures in smuggling cases, the customs chief said confiscations were being carried out under the existing legal framework and that any change in the procedure would require legislation.

The meeting focused on concerns from traders and transporters over security, movement of goods and customs procedures, with senior police and customs officials outlining measures they said were intended to facilitate lawful business activity in the province.