Intensify search operations to ensure peaceful Muharram
LAHORE - Punjab Police have significantly intensified security and search operations across the province during Muharram-ul-Haram, deploying more than 31,000 police personnel for the protection of mourning processions and religious gatherings, while also carrying out hundreds of search operations against suspicious and criminal elements. According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, strict security arrangements were ensured across the province on the fourth day of Muharram-ul-Haram under the directions of Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Kareem. A total of 278 mourning processions and 3,907 majalis were held throughout Punjab under comprehensive security cover. In Lahore alone, 17 mourning processions and 412 majalis were organized on the same day, with thousands of police officers deployed to ensure safety and maintain law and order. More than 23,000 community volunteers also assisted law enforcement agencies in managing crowds and supporting security arrangements during religious gatherings. The spokesperson added that Punjab Police, in coordination with other institutions, has placed the province on high alert during the first ten days of Muharram-ul-Haram to prevent any untoward incident. Security agencies including the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin Squad, and Police Response Units (PRU) have been deployed in all districts to ensure a peaceful environment.
IGP Abdul Kareem stated that the enforcement of Section 144 imposed by the Government of Punjab is being strictly ensured across the province. He emphasised that aerial firing, display of weapons, dissemination of hate material, and any provocative activity are strictly prohibited during Muharram. He further said that no procession or religious gathering will be allowed outside approved routes and designated venues, and all activities are being closely monitored through surveillance cameras of the Safe Cities Authority as well as district monitoring systems. Control rooms established in all districts remain fully operational and are linked with the Central Control Room at the Central Police Office for real-time coordination. The IGP stressed that strict legal action would be taken against individuals involved in violations of law, including those spreading hate material or engaging in provocative behavior on social media. He reiterated that maintaining peace and religious harmony during Muharram is the top priority of Punjab Police. In a separate update, Punjab Police spokesperson confirmed that the province-wide crackdown against criminal and suspicious elements is also continuing alongside Muharram security duties. Over the last 24 hours, 426 search operations were conducted across Punjab as part of proactive security measures. During these operations, 13,524 individuals were questioned on suspicion, while 32 suspects were arrested. Police also registered 24 cases against individuals found involved in suspicious or unlawful activities.
IGP Abdul Kareem said that indiscriminate operations against anti-state, miscreant, and criminal elements will continue throughout Muharram-ul-Haram to ensure law and order. He directed all field officers to make search operations more effective and maintain close surveillance over suspicious individuals and activities. He added that the primary objective of these operations is to ensure the peaceful conduct of mourning processions and majalis across the province without any security disruption. He further instructed police officials to enhance intelligence sharing and coordination among all law enforcement agencies. Authorities have reiterated that Muharram security remains a top priority, and all available resources are being utilized to maintain peace, protect citizens, and ensure smooth observance of religious rituals across Punjab. The Punjab Police also appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report any suspicious activity immediately to nearby police stations or helplines. With thousands of personnel deployed, extensive surveillance systems in place, and continuous search operations underway, Punjab Police say they are fully committed to ensuring a peaceful and secure Muharram-ul-Haram across the province.
(The Nation)
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