- Over 30,000 officers deployed for foolproof security at 3,583 churches, parks and key sites
- Lahore sees 6,000 personnel guarding 600 places of worship with CCTV, metal detectors reinforce festive security net
LAHORE: Marking the simultaneous observance of Quaid-e-Azam Day and Christmas worship and celebrations, the Punjab Police remained on high alert across the province, including Lahore, implementing extensive and foolproof security arrangements to ensure peaceful festivities.
In a statement, Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar extended heartfelt greetings to the nation on Quaid-i-Azam Day and to the Christian community on Christmas, while also conveying special Christmas wishes to Christian officers and personnel serving in the Punjab Police.
IGP Dr Anwar stated that Punjab Police stood shoulder to shoulder with the Christian community in their festivities, adding that comprehensive security arrangements were provided at Christmas worship services, ceremonies, parks, and recreational places. He said that, in consultation with church administrations, foolproof security measures were ensured across the province.
On the other hand, a spokesperson for the police said that security remained on high alert, with more than 30,000 police officers and personnel deployed to perform security duties at 3,583 churches, sensitive locations, parks, and recreational spots throughout Punjab.
In the provincial capital Lahore, over 6,000 police officers and personnel were deployed for the security of more than 600 Christian places of worship. Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU), and Elite Force teams conducted effective patrolling around churches and recreational areas.
According to the Punjab Police spokesperson, 2,832 CCTV cameras were installed for monitoring sensitive churches, while 4,546 metal detectors were used to check individuals entering Christian places of worship.
Additionally, more than 1,000 police officers and personnel were deployed to ensure security for events organized on Quaid-e-Azam Day. Extra police contingents, commandos, and snipers were positioned at sensitive churches and important locations.
On the directions of the IG Punjab, citizens were allowed entry into churches and parks only after complete checking and verification of identity. Strict vigilance was maintained on suspicious individuals, unattended items, and surrounding movements. District Police Officers (DPOs) and senior supervisory officers personally inspected security arrangements at churches, parks, and recreational places and remained in continuous contact with church administrations.
The Punjab IG Police commended Punjab Police officers and personnel for ensuring foolproof security on the occasion of Quaid-i-Azam Day and Christmas, praising their professionalism, vigilance, and dedication to maintaining law and order.
Security checks were further tightened at entry and exit points of Lahore and other cities, while citizens were urged to immediately inform local police about any suspicious person, item, or activity.
