Daily Times

LAHORE: The city police have finalised security arrangement for Youm-e-Ali (A.S) falling on Ramazan 21 today (Monday). Under the plan, at least 3,000 security personnel will be performing security duties on the routes of mourning procession. Around 50 CCTV cameras have been installed on sensitive points across the city and a police van equipped with latest technology will also be patrolling and monitoring the processions. Specially trained snipers at the rooftops of buildings located adjacent to all important mosques, markets, bazaars and other public places across the city would also be deployed. The security forces will block all the entry points on the routes and the mourners will only be allowed to join the procession right from the beginning under the observation of police and organisers. No bystanders either on the streets or on the roofs will be allowed to stand while snipers will take positions on different buildings in order to counter any untoward incident. High voltage lights have been installed to ensure crystal clear recording of mourning processions by surveillance cameras. Personnel of Elite Force, Mujahid Force, Quick Response Force and Dolphin Force in addition to personnel in plainclothes from other intelligence agencies would assist police. The personnel deputed at city’s police stations are also directed to keep a vigilant eye on all crowded places situated in their respective jurisdictions. DIG Operations Dr Haider Ashraf said that Shia clerics and police officials have finalised a security plan for the central procession, while 800 male and 400 female volunteers would also escort the procession. He said that the people would be allowed to enter the rally after searching, adding that Shia clerics have assured police of their support during the procession. He added that a temporary monitoring cell in the DIG operations office was being established for the live monitoring of the procession. The main procession will be taken out from Mubarik Havaili which after passing through its conventional route will culminate at the Karbala Gamay Shah. Meanwhile, sources said that the city police have arrested hundreds of innocent people in the wake of security measures. However, the police sources said that the suspects would be released after their thorough identification.