The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Police have established the country’s first dedicated UAV division to strengthen aerial surveillance and security operations. Officials said the move reflects a shift towards using modern technology in counterterrorism efforts.
Since the start of 2025, UAVs with thermal cameras have helped police track militants hiding in difficult terrain. These drones have been deployed with anti-drone guns in districts including Peshawar and the restive Bannu district to prevent attacks. Officials said the new UAV division will help better detect and counter such threats.
Under the division, the KP police had established ground control stations (GCS) that support aerial surveillance and coordinated security responses. Officials said the system can collect large volumes of intelligence data and identify hidden militant positions.KP Police Chief Zulfiqar Hameed mentioned that the Safe City Project will expand drone coverage from three kilometres to about 10 kilometres once it is approved by the provincial cabinet. The project will also extend surveillance to areas such as Lakki Marwat district.
The Peshawar Safe City Project will have a Drone Centre to train pilots and manage drone missions. Officials said other provinces might also use this technology, and selected staff are receiving advanced training at the School of Tactics.
