Balochistan Abolishes Levies System; All ‘B-Areas’ Converted Into Police-Controlled ‘A-Areas’
Quetta: In a major policy shift, **Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti**, alongside **IG Police Muhammad Tahir**, announced the **complete abolition of the Levies system** in the province. All *“B-Areas”* previously under Levies control will now be converted into *“A-Areas”* under **police administration**.
Speaking at a press conference in Quetta, CM Bugti acknowledged that while the decision might not be “popular,” it is the “right one,” adding that **time will prove its necessity**. He said the federal government has approved a **Rs 10 billion package** to strengthen the capacity of the Balochistan Police.
### **Police Reforms and Modernization**
The Chief Minister announced that the allocated funds would be used to enhance **combat readiness, intelligence capabilities, and modern equipment**. “We are equipping the police with **drone technology, night vision devices, and aerial capacity**, with government-to-government (G2G) negotiations underway with **China** through the Ministry of Defence,” he revealed.
Bugti further stated that specialized forces such as the **CTD**, **SOG**, and **RRG** will be **merged into a single, unified force** to improve operational efficiency.
### **Depoliticization and Recruitment Reforms**
Addressing IG Police Tahir directly, Bugti said, *“I publicly assure you there will be no political pressure on the police. You have complete authority.”*
He also announced plans to reform the **recruitment process**, citing delays in the **Public Service Commission**. The government is considering a **PMA-style (Pakistan Military Academy)** merit-based system for **ASI and officer recruitment**, while **IT experts** will be hired from the market on contract.
### **Tribute to Martyrs and Anti-Narcotics Operation**
The CM paid tribute to the **martyred SHO of Bhag**, who refused to surrender and embraced martyrdom. The government, he said, will recommend him for the **highest gallantry award**.
He also announced that **children of police martyrs** would receive **free education up to 16 years**, “even if they wish to study at Harvard.”
Bugti revealed plans for a **large-scale anti-narcotics operation** in **Quetta**, aiming to eradicate drug networks operating in the provincial capital.
### **Terrorism, Security, and Infrastructure Issues**
Responding to a question about rising terrorism, Bugti blamed the **2018–2023 reconciliation policy**, which, he said, allowed militants to regroup after being released from prisons. “Over 500 terrorists have been killed this year, and this fight is no longer the army’s alone—**police and Levies are now fully engaged**,” he said.
On the issue of road closures in Quetta, he clarified that the **road near the IG FC residence** was blocked due to a **suicide attack** in which the IG’s family was injured. “The wall is being rebuilt; once it’s complete, the road will reopen,” he assured.
### **Political Questions**
Regarding the **two-and-a-half-year government rotation formula**, Bugti said he was not interested in political arrangements. *“Whether it’s one year or five, I’ll serve the people until my last second in office,”* he remarked.
On **local body elections**, he said the decision will be taken in consultation with all coalition partners, keeping in view the **current security situation** in the province.
This decision marks one of the most sweeping administrative reforms in Balochistan’s recent history, signaling a new phase of **centralized policing and governance** across the province.
