Pindi bolsters Muharram security

Army and Rangers stand ready to assist, ensuring safety during holy month’s events

RAWALPINDI:

The police have made comprehensive security arrangements to ensure peace and safety during the holy month of Muharram.

Over 7,000 police officers and personnel will be deployed, with two companies of the Pakistan Army and Rangers on standby to assist. Additional forces will support the Rawalpindi police.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Rawalpindi SSP Operations Hafiz Kamran Asghar emphasised that social media will be closely monitored to curb hate speech.

The finalised security plan for Muharram in Rawalpindi includes coverage for 1,761 majalis and 316 processions, including the central Ashura procession. The police have requested and received an additional 400 officers from the Punjab Highway Patrol Police and 15 reserve forces of 20 personnel each.

Special units from the Punjab Constabulary, equipped with necessary gear, will also be deployed, along with eight reserve forces from the Police Training Institutes under the supervision of the CPO and SSP Operations Rawalpindi.

SSP Operations Hafiz Kamran Asghar stated that a total of 7,500 police personnel will ensure security in Rawalpindi during Muharram. Special arrangements are in place for the Ashura procession, with standby support from the Army and Rangers. Elite Force, CTD, Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin, and other field formations will be actively involved.

The Loudspeaker Act will be strictly enforced, and individuals listed in the Fourth Schedule will be closely monitored. Security SOPs will be implemented rigorously at sensitive locations, utilizing CCTV cameras, metal detectors, and walk-through gates.

Additionally, the City Traffic Police have devised a special plan to maintain traffic flow during Muharram, with 931 officers and wardens assigned to traffic duties.