The increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones, in conflict situations has introduced new security challenges for law enforcement agencies in Pakistan, particularly in the southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. As drones become more accessible and adaptable, armed groups have begun using quadcopters to target police installations and civilian areas, gaining a tactical advantage over conventional security measures. In response, KP Police have started deploying anti drone technology to counter these threats, including jamming guns and advanced systems designed to intercept hostile aerial activity. The growing reliance on drones reflects a shift in tactics, as authorities face an evolving form of conflict driven by technology rather than traditional methods.
For decades, Pakistan has dealt with violence in KP using extensive ground based operations and intelligence efforts to counter groups that rely on surprise attacks and guerrilla style tactics. Over time, these groups have moved away from earlier methods such as gun and bomb attacks and improvised explosive devices, increasingly adopting drone based operations to evade detection and deliver payloads with precision. Security experts believe this transition has been influenced by global conflicts, particularly the Russia Ukraine war, where drones have demonstrated effectiveness in surveillance and targeted strikes. The use of drones allows operators to remain at a distance while maintaining visual awareness of targets, making it harder for police to respond swiftly. KP Police confirmed that anti drone jamming guns were deployed during sensitive events, including Ashura processions in Peshawar, as part of enhanced security arrangements.
Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed stated that police have successfully intercepted 76 quadcopter attacks using anti drone guns, but warned that the threat is expected to increase. He explained that jamming guns can typically disable one or two drones at a time, which prompted armed groups to adopt drone swarm tactics. By launching multiple quadcopters simultaneously from different directions, they have complicated interception efforts and stretched police resources. According to the police chief, this has become a technological conflict, with attackers reducing their dependence on earlier attack methods and focusing more on aerial devices. He clarified that KP Police do not operate drones offensively and that their use of technology remains defensive, aimed at protecting installations and public gatherings.
As drone swarms began bypassing jamming guns, police introduced two dedicated anti drone systems in Peshawar and the volatile Bannu district. Officials claim these systems have shown greater effectiveness in countering multiple drones at once. Data gathered from various sources indicates that Bannu alone witnessed around 320 drone related incidents over the past year, while Bajaur recorded 21 incidents and North and South Waziristan together reported 34. Although these figures are not officially verified, senior officers believe the scale highlights the seriousness of the threat. Former additional inspector general Akhtar Ali Shah noted that the widespread availability of quadcopters has allowed armed groups to challenge the long held dominance of law enforcement in controlling airspace. Despite this, senior officials remain cautiously optimistic, stating that technology driven threats can be managed with corresponding technological responses.
According to police officials stationed in Bannu, areas such as Miryan, Haved, Daud Shah, Mamand Khel, Domel, Bargnatu and villages near the cantonment remain under frequent pressure. In a statement from the office of the Bannu Regional Police Officer, it was disclosed that 20 drone attacks targeted police installations and civilian populations, resulting in injuries to 19 police personnel and harm to civilians. Following the installation of an anti drone system on July 18, authorities observed a marked improvement, with more than 300 drone attempts thwarted and four drones neutralised. Officials emphasised that drones also present an opportunity to trace operators, as they are usually located nearby. As drone usage for surveillance and attacks continues to rise, authorities believe that wider deployment of counter technology, structural adjustments to facilities and improved camouflage of open areas will be necessary to limit intelligence gathering and reduce future risks.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
