Assistance of the Army & Rangers to support the Punjab police in maintaining peace & order during Muharram

The Punjab Home Department has requested the assistance of the Army and Rangers to support the Punjab police in maintaining peace and order during the month of Muharram, as reported on Friday. Each year, law enforcement agencies develop comprehensive security plans to prevent untoward incidents, particularly during mourning processions on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.

Historically, Muharram processions have been targeted by militants, including a bomb blast in December 2009 that killed over 40 people on Karachi's M. A. Jinnah Road. 

The Punjab Home Department’s spokesperson stated, "Law enforcement agencies will render their services for the peaceful observance of Muharram." The statement further noted that the Punjab government had requested 150 contingents of the Army and Rangers to meet the security needs of various districts.

The Punjab police had requested the deployment of 69 Army contingents and 81 Ranger squads across Punjab to assist in providing security during Muharram. Similarly, a security plan in Rawalpindi involves over 7,500 police personnel and two Army and Ranger contingents on standby for emergencies. Traffic plans have also been established to ensure the smooth flow of vehicles in the cities.