Some 1,400 weapons and 250,000 rounds of ammunition looted in the aftermath of the July Uprising still remain missing, CA’s Special Assistant Abdul Hafiz said on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters following the final session of the three-day Deputy Commissioners’ (DCs) Conference, Hafiz said the joint forces’ drive across the country would continue and the focus will be given to recover the missing arms and ammunition.
When asked about directives given to the DCs, Hafiz said, “In a few districts, some weapons and ammunition have been destroyed. Questions were raised about how quickly these could be officially disposed of. Moving forward, the authorities must address multiple challenges. As I have mentioned, around 1,400 weapons, looted after 5 August, have yet to be recovered. Similarly, 250,000 rounds of various types of ammunition remain missing, which could potentially fall into the hands of terrorists and be used for nefarious purposes.”
Providing further details, Hafiz said early 6,000 weapons were looted, with three-quarters of them successfully retrieved. “Of the 600,000 rounds of ammunition taken, only 250,000 remain missing. This means a significant number has been recovered. The ongoing operations will ensure that the rest are recovered in due course,” he added.
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Expressing concerns about emerging threats, Hafiz said, “I have pointed out that autocratic elements and their allies are regrouping and announcing programmes. They could drive the country towards instability, and we must remain vigilant. With Ramadan approaching, the authorities will face threefold challenges: ensuring market stability to keep commodity prices affordable, managing potential electricity shortages, and maintaining law and order.”
Hafiz said citizens have some fundamental expectations. “People want to move around safely, sleep peacefully at night, and have access to essential goods at reasonable prices. Moreover, they should receive government services without unnecessary hassles. I have conveyed that the officials on the ground represent the government to the people.”
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About civil-military cooperation, Hafiz mentioned that discussions were held on enhancing coordination between the civil administration and the armed forces.