Balochistan has been grappling with persistent terrorism issues. In response, the federal government has removed Abdul Khalique Sheikh from his role as Inspector General of Balochistan Police and appointed Moazzam Jah Ansari as his successor.
The Establishment Division issued notifications confirming that BS-21 officer Abdul Khalique Sheikh has been replaced by BS-22 officer Moazzam Jah Ansari. Sheikh has been directed to report to the Establishment Division immediately until further notice.
The appointment notification for Ansari states that, with federal approval, he is being transferred from his current position as Commandant of the Frontier Constabulary (FC) to serve as Provincial Police Officer (PPO) for the Government of Balochistan, effective immediately.
Later that day, the new IGP met with President Asif Ali Zardari, who underscored the need to improve the law and order situation in Balochistan. The president conveyed his best wishes to Ansari in his new role.
Earlier this week, Balochistan witnessed severe violence as militants from the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) carried out attacks that resulted in the deaths of at least 50 people, including 14 security personnel. The militants targeted police stations, damaged railway tracks, and set fire to multiple vehicles. In response to these incidents, President Zardari emphasized the need for comprehensive measures to enhance security and eliminate terrorism in the province during a meeting with Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi and Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti.
