Punjab Police bolsters security with 74,000 personnel for vigilance

LAHORE: Punjab’s Inspector General of Police, Dr Usman Anwar, has underscored the extensive security measures in place during Ramazan, with over 74,000 police personnel and community volunteers deployed across the province.

Their focus is on safeguarding more than 36,000 mosques, 2,179 Imambargahs, and 444 minority worship sites.

Dr Anwar highlighted the robust security plan in effect, which includes the utilisation of over 200 walk-through gates and 12,000 metal detectors at sensitive locations such as mosques and Imambargahs.

Additionally, intensified search operations and patrols are being conducted around these areas and other religious sites throughout the day, particularly during the crucial hours of Fajar, Iftar, and Taraweeh prayers.

Various specialised police units, including the Dolphin Squad, Peru, and Elite teams, are actively patrolling around mosques and places of worship.

The surveillance network is bolstered by the continuous monitoring of security activities through Safe City cameras.

Dr Anwar emphasised the close collaboration between Regional Police Officers (RPOs), District Police Officers (DPOs), and local peace and mosque committees to ensure a peaceful Ramazan, with citizens’ cooperation being vital to these efforts.

Furthermore, Dr Anwar acknowledged the significant role played by religious scholars in fostering interfaith harmony, brotherhood, and peace among the populace.