Bhakkar boosts security amid terror threats
The city has been placed under strict security measures due to potential threats and the region's sensitivity ahead of the 12th Rabiul Awwal celebrations.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ordered heightened vigilance, with security forces on high alert to maintain peace during the festivities.
The district is set to host 55 processions and 320 gatherings.
Extensive security arrangements have been put in place, including increased monitoring at key entry points and strategic locations.
Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar, during his address, emphasised the significance of the Daajil check post, describing it as a critical barrier against terrorism.
He remarked that the post serves as a "fortified wall" protecting the region, with additional police personnel deployed to ensure tight control.
All river routes leading into the district have been sealed, and stringent checks have been implemented at the main bridge linking Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Control rooms equipped with CCTV cameras have been established to monitor the gatherings and prevent any potential disturbances.
These rooms are being closely monitored to ensure the safety of participants, with authorities aiming to prevent any untoward incidents during the celebrations.
Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sargodha Region Muhammad Shehzad Asif Khan visited Bhakkar to oversee the security measures and address concerns related to past incidents of terrorism in the district.
In his conversation with The Express Tribune, RPO Khan acknowledged that Bhakkar remains one of the most sensitive districts in Punjab, with a history of terrorism and bomb explosions that have claimed lives.
The neighbouring district of Mianwali has also faced multiple terrorist attacks, further heightening security concerns in the region.
As part of the security measures, police personnel stationed at river check posts and those near the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa border have been provided with bulletproof vests.
Rangers and other security agencies are on high alert, working in collaboration to ensure a peaceful environment.
The morale of the police officers, according to RPO Khan, remains high, with all personnel fully prepared to tackle any security threats.
DPO Bhakkar Muhammad Abdullah Lak briefed the RPO on the district's crime situation, key installations, and security arrangements along the border areas. During his visit, RPO Khan also met with the families of police martyrs, distributing plot documents for housing to the families of three martyrs from the Bhakkar police.
The RPO concluded his visit by inspecting the security arrangements at the river check post at Bharami Nawab and the inter-provincial Daajil check post.
Governor Haider reaffirmed that, following the directives of the CM, all provincial check posts will be further secured and equipped with additional resources to ensure safety across the region.