Strict security: Over 5,000 personnel deployed

HANGU: At least 5,000 personnel have been deployed across Hangu to ensure foolproof security during Muharram. This was said during a media briefing on Sunday. Hangu Scouts’ Colonel Munir and Hangu Commanding Officer Colonel Maqbool said security personnel, including Frontier Constabulary, army and the police had been deployed at entry and exit points of the district. The use of loudspeakers has been banned for all purposes except for delivering the azaan. The officials said they are in contact with leaders of both Sunni and Shia sects during the month. Both Shia and Sunni leaders ensured their full cooperation to maintain peace during Muharram, the officials added. In addition, they are also coordinating with district and elected local government representatives. They added CCTV cameras were installed on the routes of Muharram processions and at the district’s entry and exit points. The officials stated quick response force mobile vehicles were on alert and will be deployed to counter any untoward incident. Security forces have conducted routine patrols in Hangu Bazaar and search operations in various parts of the district.

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