LAHORE:Punjab remained on high alert on 9th Muharram as authorities deployed more than 152,000 police officers and personnel across the province to secure mourning processions and religious gatherings commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions at Karbala.
More than 11,000 police officers and personnel have been deployed across the city to perform security duties.According to a statement issued by CCPO Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana, extensive security arrangements were made for 386 majalis and 81 mourning processions. He said that strict implementation of the security SOPs issued by the Punjab government, as well as Section 144 restrictions, was being ensured. A complete ban on pillion riding on motorcycles will remain in force on the 10th Muharram (today) also.
The CCPO stated that enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act was being strictly monitored. Shops and markets located along procession routes will remain closed, while standing on the rooftops of buildings and shops surrounding the processions will not be permitted. Organisers and participants will also be required to adhere to designated timings and approved routes for majalis and processions.
Bilal Siddique Kamyana said that mourners are being provided with a robust four-tier security cover, supported by walk-through gates, metal detectors and other modern security equipment.
Processions and majalis are being monitored round the clock through live digital surveillance by the PSCA and other monitoring centres. Divisional SPs have been directed to maintain close coordination with peace committee members and procession organizers, while Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU) and Elite Force teams continue patrols around majalis and procession routes.
The CCPO also urged citizens not to pay attention to rumors or fake news and to remain vigilant against miscreants while promoting unity and harmony within the community.Kamyana visited Imambargah Pando Street in Islampura and inspected the route of the main 9th Muharram procession to review security arrangements at Majalis and procession routes.During the visit, DIG (Operations) Faisal Kamran briefed the CCPO on the security measures in place.
