LAHORE - The Punjab Police ensured comprehensive security arrangements across the province for Friday prayers and Youm-e-Quds rallies, deploying more than 83,000 personnel to maintain law and order. According to a spokesperson, over 83,000 police officers, personnel, and community volunteers were deployed to secure more than 32,500 mosques, Imambargahs, and other places of worship across Punjab, including Lahore. On the occasion of Youm-e-Quds, more than 25,000 officers and personnel performed security duties at 136 rallies held throughout the province. Among these, 15 rallies were categorized as A-category, 22 as B-category, and 99 as C-category. On the directions of Abdul Kareem, police officers and personnel remained on high alert to ensure peaceful observance of Jumuat-ul-Wida and Youm-e-Quds. The IG Punjab directed that strict surveillance be maintained on terrorists, miscreants, and suspicious individuals in view of the situation along the western border. Security of mosques, places of worship, police posts, foreign embassies, sensitive locations, and key installations was also further enhanced.
Specialized units, including Dolphin Squad, PRU, and Elite Force teams, carried out effective patrolling around religious and sensitive places as well as markets. Continuous monitoring was ensured through CCTV cameras installed at mosques, places of worship, markets, and other sensitive points. The IG Punjab also directed that search and combing operations continue against elements associated with Fitna Al-Khawarij and Fitna Al-Hindustan. Personnel deployed at entry and exit points of cities and inter-provincial checkpoints were instructed to remain highly vigilant. RPOs and DPOs were directed to maintain close coordination with mosque administrations, peace committees, and rally organizers to ensure smooth and peaceful observance of religious gatherings. Abdul Kareem emphasized the importance of promoting interfaith harmony, brotherhood, and peace, urging religious scholars and spiritual leaders to play their role in fostering unity. He noted that the peaceful observance of the holy month of Ramadan is being ensured with the cooperation of citizens. Security around major markets and public places has also been strengthened, with special focus on mosques, places of worship, and religious gatherings.
(The Nation)
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