Quetta police barred from media interactions, social media posts

QUETTA: Police authorities have barred officers and personnel from speaking to the media, sharing operational details, or uploading photos and videos on social media platforms without prior official authorisation, according to a directive issued by Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Imran Shaukat.

The move comes after officers repeatedly shared police performance updates, operational details and internal departmental material on various social media platforms despite prior warnings.

The directive said, “Police personnel are strictly forbidden from giving interviews, statements, or sharing photos and videos — both personal and official — on unauthorised social media platforms, including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, without prior clearance.”

It said all media interactions and public release of police-related information must be cleared through the Public Relations Officer (PRO) to the DIG Quetta.

All officers have also been instructed to immediately report to the PRO Branch any social media content related to police operations, personnel or internal affairs that could affect the image, discipline or morale of the police force.

The order takes effect immediately.

DIG Imran Shaukat warned that any violation of the instructions would be treated seriously and could result in departmental action under the applicable service rules.

The notification has been circulated among senior police officials across the province, including the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Balochistan, additional IGPs and divisional police heads, as well as DSPs and SHOs in Quetta and Mastung districts, for strict compliance.