New Year's Eve 2024: Large shipment of alcohol seized in Lahore

Large alcohol shipment seized by Lahore police ahead of New Year's Eve celebrations. Investigation underway.

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A major shipment of alcohol reportedly intended for distribution on New Year's Eve was intercepted by police in Lahore.

The raid took place at the Model Town Caddery Parking lot, following a tip-off, Express News reported.

The police, led by Naseerabad authorities, discovered a total of 140 bottles of liquor from a person named Ashraf, who was present at the location.

Upon questioning, Ashraf admitted to bringing the alcohol for distribution at various locations, to supply to people celebrating New Year’s Eve. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway.

Meanwhile, the Additional IG Traffic Punjab issued special directives regarding traffic management for the New Year's Eve celebrations, ensuring that only a limited number of vehicles are allowed on major roads.

Extra traffic personnel will be deployed across key highways to manage the heavy influx of vehicles during the event.

On the other hand, Karachi Police have issued a stern warning to citizens about the dangers of celebratory firing on New Year's Eve, stating that cases of attempted murder will be filed against violators.

Announcements across mosques in the city are urging people to avoid aerial firing, with strict measures in place to enforce the ban.

Sindh’s Inspector General of Police, Ghulam Nabi Memon, emphasized increased patrolling, picketing, and snap checks on roads and public places.

The police have also implemented a new initiative in the West Zone to collect licensed weapons from citizens, aiming to prevent celebratory gunfire.

In response to the ongoing issue, Karachi’s West Zone has already gathered hundreds of weapons, including pistols, shotguns, and rifles.

The police are determined to curb the number of injuries and deaths that typically result from celebratory firing.

To ensure safety, security measures, including the deployment of 1,431 police personnel at Sea View and additional officers at churches and other venues, have been finalized for the night.

As part of the security plan, Section 144 has been enforced, prohibiting the use of firearms, aerial firing, and fireworks.

Karachi Traffic Police have also announced road closures in certain areas, advising residents of Defence Housing Authority (DHA) to use alternative routes.