Islamabad Police Launch Plainclothes Unit to Combat Drugs on Campuses
Islamabad Police has officially launched a specialized plainclothes intelligence unit aimed at eliminating narcotics from educational institutions. This step comes as part of a broader anti-narcotics initiative ordered by the Islamabad High Court (IHC) to ensure the safety and well-being of students across the capital.
Special Intelligence Wing Under the Special Branch
According to a report submitted to the IHC, the police have formed a dedicated intelligence wing under the Special Branch. This wing will operate in plain clothes, enabling officers to discreetly monitor schools, colleges, and universities for drug-related activities. The unit is tasked with collecting actionable intelligence and coordinating with educational institutions to take immediate preventive or enforcement actions.
Court Oversight and NGO Petition
The case was heard by Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas, who reviewed a petition filed by a private nongovernmental organization through advocate Kashif Ali Malik. Assistant Inspector General (Legal) Tahir Kazim presented the report, emphasizing the proactive measures adopted by Islamabad Police in collaboration with educational authorities.
Coordination with Educational Institutions
The initiative involves close coordination between the police, education regulators, the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), and representatives from over 40 educational institutions. A unified policy was developed to tackle drug-related issues on campuses. Measures include intelligence-sharing, immediate intervention protocols, and preventive awareness programs.
Mandatory Drug Awareness Programs
Educational institutions will be required to conduct drug awareness seminars led by certified anti-narcotics experts. These seminars aim to educate students, teachers, and staff about the dangers of narcotics and the importance of reporting suspicious activities.
CCTV Surveillance and Safe City Integration
All institutions participating in the program must install CCTV cameras at entry points and sensitive areas. These cameras will be integrated with the Safe City monitoring system, enhancing the ability of law enforcement to track and respond to illegal activities in real time.
Joint Security Audits and Reporting
Institutions will undergo regular joint security audits conducted by police and education authorities to ensure compliance with anti-drug regulations. Monthly performance reports will be submitted, allowing authorities to evaluate progress and identify areas requiring additional support.
Positive Impact on Narcotics Cases
According to enforcement data cited in the report, the initiative has already shown promising results. Narcotics cases in educational institutions dropped from 23 cases in 2024 to 11 cases so far in 2025. All accused individuals in these cases have been arrested, reflecting the effectiveness of the plainclothes monitoring approach.
Future Plans and Sustainability
The Islamabad Police plan to continue and expand the program, incorporating more schools and colleges in the coming months. The unit will keep using intelligence-driven operations, preventive awareness campaigns, and strict law enforcement to maintain a drug-free environment on campuses.
Conclusion
The formation of the plainclothes police unit demonstrates Islamabad Police’s commitment to protecting students and maintaining safe educational environments. By combining intelligence operations, institutional coordination, awareness programs, and technological surveillance, the initiative sets a strong precedent for proactive anti-narcotics efforts in Pakistan.
FAQ
1. What is the new plainclothes police unit in Islamabad?
The Islamabad Police has launched a special plainclothes intelligence unit to monitor educational institutions and eliminate drug-related activities discreetly. Officers operate in civilian clothing to collect intelligence and coordinate immediate action.
2. Which educational institutions are included in this initiative?
Over 40 schools, colleges, and universities in Islamabad are participating in this anti-narcotics initiative, with plans to expand coverage to additional institutions in the future.
3. What preventive measures are being taken to combat drugs on campuses?
Institutions are required to conduct drug awareness seminars, install CCTV cameras linked to the Safe City system, and participate in joint security audits. Monthly reports are submitted to ensure compliance.
4. Has the initiative shown any results so far?
Yes, narcotics cases in educational institutions have decreased from 23 cases in 2024 to 11 cases in 2025. All accused individuals in these cases have been arrested.
5. How does the plainclothes unit operate?
Officers in civilian attire monitor campuses and nearby areas, collect intelligence on drug activities, and work closely with school and university administrations to take timely action while ensuring safety and confidentiality.
