In a landmark move to enhance law enforcement across Pakistan, President Asif Ali Zardari has signed the Frontier Constabulary Reorganization Ordinance 2025, officially renaming the Frontier Constabulary (FC) as the Federal Constabulary. This ordinance grants the newly named force expanded powers and jurisdiction throughout the entire country.
The ordinance, issued on Monday, brings significant changes by extending the Federal Constabulary’s operational reach beyond its traditional areas into all four provinces, Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. This nationwide jurisdiction is aimed at creating a more unified and effective law enforcement body to address security challenges.
The new structure under the ordinance includes appointing the Inspector General of the Federal Constabulary directly by the federal government. It also establishes a hierarchical framework with wing commanders for each division, holding ranks equivalent to Deputy Inspector General. This reorganization is designed to professionalize the force and streamline command and control.
Additionally, the ordinance allows the federal government to form a Federal Reserve Force within the Federal Constabulary to maintain law and order, respond to riots, and handle counter-terrorism operations. The force will be equipped with dedicated Security and Federal Reserve divisions to effectively address internal security issues.
Recruitment offices will be set up nationwide to facilitate hiring under this new framework. The Federal Constabulary will be led primarily by officers from the Police Service of Pakistan, ensuring experienced leadership and coordination with other law enforcement agencies.
The ordinance is effective immediately and applies to all members of the force. It empowers the federal government to deploy the Federal Constabulary in support of Islamabad Police, provincial police, and other agencies when needed. Moreover, the Federal Constabulary will operate under various laws, including the Criminal Procedure Code of 1898, the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997, and the Police Order of 2002.
Importantly, the government retains the power to grant police-like authority to members of the Federal Constabulary, enhancing their role in maintaining peace and security nationwide. This reorganization is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s law enforcement capabilities and improve coordination in tackling security threats.
For more on Pakistan’s evolving security framework, read our detailed analysis of the new Federal Constabulary powers and nationwide law enforcement reforms.
