Balochistan Police Inspector General Muhammad Tahir on Tuesday chaired a meeting via video link from the Central Police Office Quetta with all range and district police officers to review Muharram security arrangements and other important law and order matters across the province.
During the meeting, a detailed review of security measures and other key issues relating to Muharram-ul-Haram was conducted. Tahir said that the security plan would be implemented in close collaboration with the organizers of Muharram processions.
He said that Muharram-ul-Haram teaches unity, brotherhood and above all patience, adding that a comprehensive strategy had been prepared to maintain law and order throughout the province during the holy month.
The IG directed officers to improve checking and security arrangements at all entry and exit points of cities. He instructed that shops, markets and plazas located along procession routes should be searched, swept and sealed after inspection.
The Balochistan Police chief stressed the need for strict implementation of the Tenancy Act and directed authorities to obtain complete data of tenants residing in rented houses and shops through property dealers. He ordered legal action against property owners and tenants who fail to comply with tenancy laws.
The meeting decided to intensify the campaign against illegal and unregistered vehicles. The IG ordered strict action against non-custom-paid vehicles and suspicious rickshaws, while emphasizing special checking of suspicious persons and vehicles.
Participants were informed that district police, Frontier Corps and other security forces personnel would monitor gatherings, processions and other sensitive locations. The meeting was briefed that 77 gatherings, 77 Imambargahs, 41 pickets and 21 Morchas had been established.
According to the briefing, control rooms will be established at the Home Department, IG Office and DIG Office to monitor the security situation. In addition to district police, personnel of the Balochistan Constabulary, Eagle Squad, Quick Response Force (QRF) and Special Branch will be deployed, while aerial surveillance will also be conducted.
The meeting was informed that the movement of Afghan refugees and other foreigners would be closely monitored. Daily checking of hotels, inns, restaurants, rented houses and shops across the city will also be carried out. Authorities will obtain complete data of residents from available registers, and hotel records will be maintained at every police station.
The briefing noted that Imambargahs and congregation sites will be monitored through CCTV cameras with the assistance of force personnel. Police have also prepared a joint action plan with other law enforcement agencies for Muharram security, while special traffic management arrangements will be implemented during the month.