LAHORE:Inspector General Police Punjab Abdul Kareem has directed the senior police officers to make comprehensive security measures for majalis and mourning processions before the start of Muharram-ul-Haram and ensure full implementation of the security SOPs issued by the Home Department.
He said that in view of the current strategic situation in the region, security during Muharram is more sensitive and challenging than before; therefore, all officers should perform their professional duties with full commitment. He issued these directions while chairing a meeting at the Central Police Office on Monday.
IG Punjab said that anti-state elements may try to disturb law and order through terrorism, mischief, and sectarian hatred; however, the Punjab Police is fully prepared to thwart any such conspiracy. He directed RPOs and DPOs to maintain close liaison with peace committees, scholars from different schools of thought, organisers of majalis and processions, and all other stakeholders.
Abdul Kareem emphasised that all operational, logistical, transport, traffic, and anti-riot arrangements for Muharram-ul-Haram should be completed according to the set timeline. He directed senior police officers to personally visit procession routes, Imambargahs and sensitive locations to review security and traffic arrangements, while also ensuring removal of encroachments, road repair, patch work, and functionality of street lights in cooperation with the district administration.
CTD, Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin Force, and PRU along with other field formations should perform their duties responsibly during Muharram.IG Punjab said that during the Ashura days, Punjab Police will have full support of the Pakistan Army, Rangers, and other law enforcement agencies, while additional force will be deployed at sensitive locations across the province. He also directed the revision of Muharram security orders and special focus on flash and trouble points.
He said that to further strengthen citizens’ sense of security, search, sweep, and combing operations along with flag marches will be conducted in sensitive areas. Cyber patrolling and monitoring will be further enhanced to prevent sectarianism, religious hatred, and incitement on social media, while strict legal action will be taken against those involved in spreading hateful content without any discrimination.
IG Punjab clarified that processions and majalis will only be allowed on designated routes and locations across all districts and strict enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act will be ensured. He also directed strict monitoring of individuals listed in the Fourth Schedule and effective use of CCTV cameras, metal detectors, and walk-through gates at sensitive locations.
