Preventive measures: Security plan finalised for Muharram in DI Khan

Afghan refugees will be banned from entering the city during sensitive periods.

DI KHAN:

A security plan has been finalised by police and security forces for the month of Muharram. DPO Nisar Ali Marwat said the army may also be called in case of an emergency situation.

During Muharram, arms shops will be sealed and the public display of weapons will also be banned. Vehicles with tinted windows  and the distribution of any material spreading hate will also be prohibited.

In a separate statement, DSP Headquarters DI Khan, Abdul Ghafar Khan, said a search operation will be carried out against Afghan refugees before Muharram. Refugees are using vehicles issued on Pakistani CNICS and these vehicles are then used in militant activities, he added.



DIG Abdul Ghafur Afridi has also instructed police officials in DI Khan and Tank to take action against suspected refugees.

DPO Marwat said 2,000 security personnel, including elite forces, will be on duty during Muharram. The Muharram processions will be monitored with the help of hidden cameras and the bomb disposal squad (BDS) will be available on standby. The Ashura procession will be monitored through surveillance helicopters and cellular services may be suspended from 9^th to 10^th Muharram.

A police control room has also been set up at the Rescue 15 Centre. Marwat said during the Ashura procession, police personnel will be deployed on the rooftops of 87 buildings, and on more than 80 streets to ensure law and order. Police officials will be also deployed at bus stands in the city.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 27^th, 2013.