Punjab tightens security for Chinese nationals, ramps up crackdown on illegal foreigners

• IG Abdul Kareem orders comprehensive review of security protocol for Chinese experts

• Says protection to be enhanced at Chinese, foreign consulates, residences and workplaces

• Directs heightened vigilance against Fitna al-Khawarij, Fitna al-Hindustan and other anti-state elements

 LAHORE: Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Kareem on Thursday ordered a comprehensive review and further strengthening of security arrangements for Chinese experts, foreign nationals and diplomatic missions across the province, while directing authorities to intensify the repatriation drive against illegally residing foreign nationals, including Afghan nationals, amid an assessment of the overall law and order situation.

Chairing a high-level meeting at the Central Police Office (CPO), the IGP directed that security be further enhanced at Chinese and other foreign consulates, as well as at the residences and workplaces of Chinese experts and other foreign nationals.

He stressed that the existing security protocol should be reviewed in consultation with police officers, the Special Branch, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and other security agencies to make it more effective, according to a statement issued by the Central Police Office on Thursday.

“Security arrangements during the movement of Chinese experts and other foreign nationals should be further strengthened to ensure their complete protection,” Abdul Kareem said.

The meeting reviewed in detail security arrangements for Chinese experts and other foreign nationals, the repatriation process of illegally residing foreign nationals, including Afghan nationals, and the overall law and order situation across Punjab.

AIG Operations Zahid Nawaz Marwat gave a comprehensive briefing on the relevant matters.

The IGP also directed that the campaign for the repatriation of all illegally residing foreign nationals and migrants, including Afghan nationals, be accelerated.

He instructed the Special Branch, CTD and other security and intelligence agencies to ensure the timely identification of illegally residing foreign nationals through intelligence-based information. He further ordered that intelligence-based search, sweep and combing operations continue across the province, including in inter-provincial border areas.

Abdul Kareem also instructed officers and personnel deployed at inter-provincial border police check posts to remain on high alert while performing their duties.

He directed that strict vigilance be maintained over the activities of Fitna al-Khawarij, Fitna al-Hindustan and other anti-state elements to ensure the maintenance of law and order throughout the province.

The meeting was attended by CCPO Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana, Additional IG South Punjab Muhammad Kamran Khan, the Additional IG Special Branch, DIG SPU, while all RPOs, CPOs and DPOs participated via video link.