Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police have decided to take a major technological step forward by establishing Pakistan’s first dedicated drone technology unit. This initiative marks a significant shift in the country’s policing approach, as drones are increasingly becoming essential tools for monitoring, surveillance, and responding to security threats. According to officials, the new unit will centralise all drone-related operations under one specialised wing, ensuring better training, maintenance, and coordinated field deployment.
The decision comes at a time when KP has been facing rising security challenges, particularly in its mountainous regions and border areas. Police officials believe that drones offer an effective solution for real-time monitoring of difficult terrains where ground patrols are often slow or risky. With drones, officers will be able to track militant movement, monitor suspicious activity, and gather evidence with greater accuracy and safety. This technological upgrade is also expected to reduce response times during emergencies and enhance the overall efficiency of the police force.
The unit will not only handle surveillance drones but may also include systems designed to counter hostile drones. In recent years, law-enforcement agencies have reported instances of drones being used for smuggling, reconnaissance, and even attacks. By creating a specialised unit, KP Police aim to stay ahead of such evolving threats and equip officers with modern tools to neutralise potential risks. Officials say that the department will begin with a combination of long-range surveillance drones and smaller quadcopters suitable for urban operations.
Besides security operations, the drone unit will also support rescue missions, disaster management, and traffic monitoring. Drones can reach areas that are inaccessible by vehicles, making them extremely useful during floods, landslides, and accidents. The KP government hopes that integrating drones into various departments will eventually improve public services and support quicker decision-making.
However, the introduction of drone policing has also raised concerns among civil-rights groups. Some fear that widespread surveillance could compromise privacy if proper regulations are not enforced. Experts stress the need for strict oversight, transparent operational guidelines, and accountability measures to ensure that technology is used responsibly.
Despite these concerns, the establishment of Pakistan’s first drone technology unit is being considered a landmark development. Many believe KP’s model could serve as an example for other provinces, paving the way for modern, tech-driven policing across the country.
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