GILGIT(National Times)- Gilgit-Baltistan police on Saturday decided to strengthen security for Chinese nationals living and working in the region following a high-level meeting to review protective measures for foreigners involved in development projects and business activities.

The meeting, chaired by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr Akbar Nasir Khan, was held at the Central Police Office in Gilgit, according to a statement issued by the GB police spokesperson.

The meeting conducted a review of security arrangements for foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens, and assessed measures for those involved in non-CPEC projects, private mining ventures, business activities and those residing at various locations across the region.

Senior police officials, including DIG Headquarters, DIG Gilgit Range, AIGs of Special Branch, Operations and Development, SSP SPU and SDPOs from Gilgit district, attended the meeting.

The officials reviewed SPU deployments, security directives, and protective measures at check posts and key entry points, while emphasising stronger coordination, advance notification, verification, and security checks for the movement of Chinese nationals across Gilgit, Skardu, Diamer, and other areas.

The IGP ordered a fresh district-level threat assessment, identification of security requirements and removal of any shortcomings within a specified timeframe.

He also directed implementation of security procedures issued by the National Counter Terrorism Authority, re-verification of residential no-objection certificates (NOC), security audits of approved locations and maintenance of comprehensive records at district level.

He called for ensuring compliance with NOC conditions, legal requirements including driving licences, and monitoring of movements, especially during nighttime.

He warned that negligence in ensuring the safety of foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens, would not be tolerated.