Govt approves Rs3.95 billion funds to beef up riot management force

The federal government has approved Rs 3.95 billion to strengthen Riot Management Force. The federal cabinet has given the go-ahead for the purchase of modern equipment aimed at enhancing the state's capacity to maintain law and order, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

According to police sources, the approved plan includes the purchase of 30 police buses, 10 water cannons, and 20 prisoner transport vans. Additionally, the force will receive 40 new armored pickup vehicles at an estimated cost of Rs 294.8 million. 

To deal with protests and demonstrations, the force will also be equipped with 50,000 tear gas shells, costing around Rs 500 million. Furthermore, 100 stun guns and 100 rubber bullet guns will be handed over to the force to manage violent situations effectively.

Surveillance and communication tools are also part of the plan, including the procurement of 75 surveillance cameras, 12 satellite phones, drones, night vision goggles, and body cameras.

The equipment list also features 5,000 new police uniforms, sleeping bags, and 100 police barriers. The total cost of the equipment procurement will be Rs 595 million.

The Finance Department will issue the notification and release the funds to begin the procurement process. This move is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing the readiness and efficiency of the Riot Management Force in protecting public peace.