KP police barred from using social media

PESHAWAR- The Office of the Inspector General of Police KP has once again reinforced the complete ban on social media usage for all police personnel across the province. This directive is part of a continued effort to curb inappropriate online activity by members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police force. The recent circular, numbered 191 PA/DIG/HQrs and dated September 2024, is addressed to all heads of police units, regional police officers, district police officers, and the CCPO Peshawar. The document highlights ongoing violations of the department’s social media policy despite several previous warnings, including those issued under CPO Letters No. 2737/IAB dated 26.11.2021, No. 1169-74/CPO/IAB dated 31.08.2022, and others in 2023 and 2024. The policy specifically prohibits the use of social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, and WhatsApp by members of the force for personal purposes, especially in ways that draw attention to themselves. Additionally, police personnel have been instructed not to use official KP Police insignia, flags, uniforms, equipment, or arms in any part of their social media profiles. Despite these clear instructions, a substantial number of police officers continue to violate the policy, often sharing personal content featuring official symbols or appearing in uniform. Such actions are deemed detrimental to the integrity of the police department and pose serious risks to the safety and security of the officers involved. The Inspector General’s office has made it clear that failure to comply with these guidelines will result in strict disciplinary action. The circular emphasizes that all unit heads, RPOs, and DPOs are now required to take immediate steps to enforce the ban and initiate departmental proceedings against violators. The Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mr. Rizwan Manzoor, who issued the circular on behalf of the Inspector General, stated that strict adherence to the social media policy is essential to preserve the professionalism and reputation of the KP Police force. This latest circular comes after a series of prior warnings and instructions on the same issue, issued via multiple letters over the last few years. Despite these measures, the non-compliance rate remains high, forcing the police leadership to take stronger actions.The KP Police has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all officers and personnel uphold the highest standards of conduct, both online and offline. The department has further directed that the policy be communicated effectively to all ranks, ensuring full awareness and compliance.