ISLAMABAD, Feb 13 (APP):In a landmark development for the capital’s security apparatus, the first unit of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Force formally passed out on Friday during an impressive ceremony held at the Islamabad Police Lines. The newly trained batch includes 25 women and 20 personnel from the Christian community, marking a historic step toward inclusivity and modernization within the Islamabad Police.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi attended the ceremony as the chief guest. Upon arrival, he inspected the parade, where smartly turned-out contingents performed an orderly march-past and presented a formal salute. The minister commended the professionalism, discipline, and physical readiness displayed by the graduating personnel.
Speaking on the occasion, Interior Minister Naqvi highlighted the significance of establishing a dedicated counterterrorism unit within the Islamabad Police, noting that for years the capital lacked a fully equipped force comparable to elite units in other provinces. “This is a major day for Islamabad Police. Until now, we did not have a practically trained force specifically prepared to combat terrorism. Our officers took the initiative, collaborated with the Army, and compressed a six-month rigorous course into three months through day-and-night commitment,” he said.
The minister praised both the trainees and their instructors for their hard work, emphasizing that the formation of the SWAT force comes at a critical time given recent security challenges. “Considering the wave of terrorism and the incidents we have witnessed, the presence of this elite team is essential for Islamabad. I am confident these young men and women will spare no effort in eliminating terrorist threats,” he added.
Naqvi also announced major reforms underway within the Islamabad Police system. He revealed that upgrades are being made to the National Police Academy and the Islamabad Police Training School, with plans to eventually host personnel from other provinces and foreign countries for specialized training. Additionally, he outlined upcoming reforms in traffic policing, driving schools, licensing procedures, police stations, Khidmat Centres, and ongoing recruitment drives aimed at strengthening the force.
The interior minister distributed awards to top-performing personnel and extended heartfelt congratulations to the entire passing-out batch. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order in the federal capital. “There will be no compromise on peace and security in Islamabad. Ensuring a safe city remains the top priority of the police, and I am confident they will uphold this duty without hesitation,” he stated.
Inspector General Islamabad Police Ali Nasir Rizvi, senior police officials, and families of the graduates were also present at the ceremony, celebrating the induction of the capital’s first-ever SWAT unit—an initiative expected to significantly enhance Islamabad’s counterterrorism response and overall policing capability.