Lahore: In response to directives from Inspector General of Police Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, stringent security measures were implemented on the third day of Muharram to safeguard processions and gatherings throughout the province. Senior police officials, including Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs), oversaw the security operations.
According to Punjab Police, the third day of Muharram witnessed 137 processions and 3,715 majalis (gatherings) across the province, all secured by over 30,000 police officers and personnel. In Lahore alone, 15 processions and 395 gatherings were monitored, with more than 3,000 officers and personnel assigned to ensure safety.
Dr. Usman Anwar stated that security would remain heightened throughout Muharram, with RPOs, DPOs, and other senior officers continuously reviewing arrangements at Imambargahs and along procession routes. He highlighted the deployment of female police officers for the protection of female attendees and stressed the enforcement of Section 144 to prohibit aerial firing, weapon displays, and the spread of hate material. Furthermore, he mentioned the use of Safe Cities Authority and district administration cameras to monitor security setups. The Counter-Terrorism Department, Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin Squad, and other units are actively involved in maintaining order during this critical period. Dr. Anwar also noted that control rooms established in all districts are linked to the central control room at the CPO for ongoing security monitoring.