Muharram security: Over 2,000 policemen, Rangers to be deployed

ICT official says some police officers would remain at PTI sit-in, but admitted that there would be a shortage of men

ISLAMABAD:

The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration has finalised security arrangements for Muharram.

An ICT official stated that this was decided in a meeting chaired by Islamabad DC Mujahid Sherdil and attended by senior police officers.  SSP Asmatullah Junejo informed the meeting that 177 processions and 909 gatherings will be held during Muharram across the city and over 2,000 police and Rangers personnel would be deputed.

The administration had already imposed Section 144 in the city for two months and banned some controversial religious leaders from entering the capital. The administration also asked Shia religious leaders to complete their procession on time and adhere to designated routes. Another ICT official said some police officers would remain at the PTI sit-in, but admitted that there would be a shortage of policemen as the Punjab Police had already refused to provide reinforcements.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 23^rd, 2014.