High alert for Easter: Over 30,000 police guard Good Friday and Easter events in Punjab

Punjab Police were placed on high alert as over 30,000 personnel were deployed across the province to secure Good Friday services yesterday and prepare for upcoming Easter Sunday celebrations. Authorities implemented strict checks, surveillance, and community coordination to ensure the safety of the Christian community.

Comprehensive Security Plan for Religious Observances

The security arrangements were finalized during a video-link meeting chaired by Additional IG Operations Punjab, Muhammad Ali Naikokara, with senior police officials, including RPOs, DIGs, and SSP Operations Lahore, participating. Officials briefed attendees on local security and traffic measures.

Entry to churches was strictly regulated, with attendees screened and verified before access. Police worked closely with community volunteers to monitor any suspicious activity, while sweep operations and door-to-door checks were intensified ahead of Good Friday. Authorities also kept a special focus on miscreant elements to prevent disruptions.

Large-Scale Deployment Across Punjab

According to Punjab Police, 13,000 personnel were assigned to 2,270 Good Friday programs, while over 17,000 officers were earmarked for 3,153 Easter events. In Lahore alone, more than 5,000 officers oversaw security duties. Sensitive locations such as churches, parks, cemeteries, and Christian neighborhoods were closely monitored, with snipers and commandos positioned at key sites. The Dolphin Force, Police Response Unit (PRU), and Elite Force carried out continuous patrolling, and city entry and exit points were tightly controlled.

Coordination and Community Engagement

Authorities maintained close coordination with the Safe City Authority, district administrations, church administrations, and Christian community leaders to ensure smooth conduct of religious events. Naikokara instructed that officers remain on duty until the conclusion of Easter prayers and related gatherings, emphasizing vigilance and interfaith harmony throughout the province.