Security arrangements tightened at BKIA

PESHAWAR/ BANNU:

Security was heightened at Bacha Khan International Airport following the militant attack on the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) base camp in Badhaber.Insiders familiar with the matter told The Express Tribune flight operations were temporarily suspended after the incident. However, they were later resumed after security was increased in and around the airport.

“Airport security forces and army personnel deployed in the area cordoned off the premises,” an official of the Civil Aviation Authority said. “As a result, operations remained suspended for a while.”

Under lock and key

A large number of educational institutes along Inqilab Road – a stone’s throw from the base camp – remained closed after the attack.

According to an insider, PAF School, Risalpur also remained under lock and key. Many students were sent back home.

Stringent security measures were also introduced at all exit and entry points in Bannu following Friday’s attack on the base camp. The district administration urged police officials to conduct snap checks to stave off an untoward situation.

An official of the district administration said police officials were asked to inspect all vehicles.

“We have decided to take all the necessary steps to guarantee safety after the attack on the PAF base camp,” he said. “Police officials in both uniforms and civvies were deployed at mosques during Friday prayers.”

He added police officials have been asked to remain on alert round-the-clock. 

Published in The Express Tribune, September 19^th, 2015.