ABBOTTABAD: Following reports of drone activity near sensitive installations in Abbottabad, Deputy Commissioner Capt (R) Sarmad Saleem Akram has banned the sale, purchase, possession and operation of camera-equipped drones and other Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) across the district under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1898.
According to an official order issued on December 16, the decision was taken as a preventive measure in view of potential security threats posed by unauthorized drone flights in the vicinity of critical installations and key public infrastructure. The order stated that such devices could be misused for unlawful surveillance, reconnaissance and other activities, endangering public safety and peace.
The ban also extends to all related control and surveillance equipment and has come into force with immediate effect throughout Abbottabad. It will remain effective for a period of two months.
The deputy commissioner clarified that notwithstanding the expiry of the order, all actions taken, investigations initiated and liabilities incurred during the enforcement period shall remain valid. Legal proceedings against violators will continue under the relevant provisions of law as if the order had not expired.
District authorities have been directed to ensure wide publicity of the order through the press, official gazette and by affixing copies on notice boards of district courts, police offices, municipal committees and police stations.
