Extensive Christmas security planned

Over 26,000 officers to be deployed across Punjab

LAHORE:

Punjab Police has finalized the security plan for Christian places of worship and sensitive installations ahead of Christmas Day. On December 25th, 26,557 officers will be deployed to protect 3,286 churches across the province.

A Punjab Police spokesman said that 2,335 CCTV cameras, 3,427 metal detectors and hundreds of walk-through gates will be used for the security of Christian citizens. As many as 3,422 officers and personnel, 271 metal detectors and 236 CCTV cameras will be deployed in the provincial capital, while lady police officers will be deployed for the security of female Christian citizens.

The spokesperson further said that Punjab Police has designated the 3,286 churches of the province into A, B and C categories; 154 are in A category, 414 churches in B category and 2718 churches in C category. Meanwhile, 3,501 Christian worship programs of A, B and C category will be held across the province, which will be provided with foolproof security.

Read Christmas security promised

IG Punjab Dr Usman Anwar directed all RPOs, DPOs and district traffic officers, including CCPO Lahore, to personally supervise Christmas security and traffic arrangements. Dr Anwar said that foolproof security must be provided to all Christian places of worship, parks, recreational places and all sensitive installations, including consulate offices.

IGP Punjab stressed that supervisory officers should go out in the field to personally inspect security arrangements and directed officers to maintain law and order throughout the province on Christmas.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 24^th, 2023.