President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday promulgated the Frontier Constabulary (Reorganization) Ordinance, 2025, empowering the federal government to transform the Frontier Constabulary (FC) into the Federal Constabulary to maintain law and order, supplement law enforcement agencies, and address diverse security needs in a coordinated manner.
Under the ordinance, the FC’s initial mandate was to maintain law and order in frontier and border areas, ensuring their security and preserving public peace in remote territories. In view of changing national security dynamics, the increasing frequency of emergencies, natural disasters, civil unrest, and other emerging threats, a more adaptable and versatile force is necessary.
According to the legislation, the new force would be headed by an inspector general of police to be appointed by the federal government. It said the FC would be a reserve force employed for specialized duties in aid of the Islamabad Capital Territory Police, provincial police forces, and other security and law enforcement forces and agencies.
The Federal Constabulary shall comprise of two divisions, namely the Security Division and the Federal Reserve Division. The security arm would consist of the existing Frontier Constabulary, while the Federal Reserve Division would be dedicated for anti-riot and special protection.
Additionally, the federal government may, by general or special order, confer or impose upon any member of the Federal Constabulary any of the powers or duties conferred or imposed on a police officer of any class or grade by any enactment for the time being in force.
The Frontier Constabulary’s existing strength largely draws from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa but operates in several districts of Pakistan. It is primarily responsible for maintaining law and order, and dealing with situations beyond the capabilities of the civilian police. It also guards against tribal incursions, criminal gangs, and contraband smuggling.
The FC was created in 1915 and presently operates in 17 districts stretching from Gilgit to Karachi. It has been operating in all provinces except Punjab, though various platoons have been deployed in the province for the security of sensitive installations and VVIPs.