Security beefed up in Islamabad

A terrorist attack in Pakpattan has lead to increased security at hospitals and places of worship.

ISLAMABAD: Security has been increased at places of worship and hospitals in Islamabad after a terrorist attack in Pakpattan. Extra deployment of police personnel was also ordered on Monday at different shrines, mosques and imambargahs of the city.

The decision to tighten security was made in a meeting headed by Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Aamir Ali Ahmed, which was also attended by officials of district administration and Islamabad police.

Meanwhile, Deputy Inspector General of Police Bani Ameen has also called for extra vigilance. Under the security plan discussed in the meeting, an official said that parking of vehicles close to mosques and worship places would be banned during prayer timings.

“Special attention has been given to shrines and police checkpoints have been established around places of worship and on roads leading towards them,” the spokesman said. Security of government and private hospitals operating in capital was also reviewed and asked to be improved.

Meanwhile, an official said that plainclothesmen were being assigned to be on the lookout for suspicious elements. Police commandoes deputed outside sensitive locations have been alerted. Special police teams have also been constituted by each police station for effective patrolling in their respective jurisdiction.

Furthermore, area offices have been directed to remain alert. Combing of slum areas, forest and green belts has been ordered while stricter surveillance is being conducted at bus stands and other public places as well.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 26^th, 2010.