Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Grants Arrest and Detention Powers to All Deputy Commissioners Amid Security Concerns

Peshawar: In view of the fragile law and order situation and ongoing security challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has taken an administrative and legal measure by delegating arrest and detention powers to all deputy commissioners across the province.
According to an official notification issued by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Home and Tribal Affairs Department, the governor has delegated these powers to the district administrations under Section 3(1) of the West Pakistan Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance, 1960.
Deputy Commissioners Authorized to Initiate Legal Action
Under the new arrangement, the relevant deputy commissioner will be authorized to take prompt legal action and issue detention orders upon receiving a case from the concerned District Police Officer (DPO) involving a suspect or an individual considered a potential threat to public order.
Decision Linked to Emergency Measures
The notification states that the decision has been taken in the context of the emergency imposed in the province on October 11, 2026. The stated objective is to enable timely action against criminal elements, individuals involved in disturbing public order, and potential security threats.
Governor Directs Strict Compliance with the Law
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has directed all deputy commissioners to exercise these powers in strict accordance with constitutional and legal requirements.
The governor has also emphasized that the powers must not be misused for political purposes or other unlawful ends. According to the statement, protecting the lives and property of citizens and maintaining the writ of the state remain the government's top priorities.
Note: The notification, the precise scope of the delegated powers, and the legal status of the reported emergency should be verified against the original official documents before publication.