PM approves formation of National Intelligence Directorate, Rapid Response Force

ISLAMABAD: Key decisions regarding Pakistan’s internal security were taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif here on Tuesday.

The meeting attended by the country’s top civilian and military leadership was held to discuss the implementation of the internal security policy.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said all resources would be extended by the federal government to the provinces for eliminating terrorism.

The Prime Minister approved establishment of a Rapid Response Force at federal and provincial levels having highly trained and skilled manpower

The formation of a National Intelligence Directorate was also approved which will operate under National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA). The directorate will increase intelligence sharing with the provinces.

Provinces will be provided bomb-disposal vehicles with the first vehicles being handed over today.

Prime Minister Sharif directed the provinces to utilise options available in the Protection of Pakistan Ordinance as this law had made electronic evidence admissible, allowed video link trial with provision for transfer of trials and prisoners to other provinces, and preventive detention of enemy aliens.

The participants of the meeting including the chief ministers were briefed by DG Military Operations, DG ISI and the Interior Ministry.