CM Punjab orders strict security on Eid night

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed authorities to ensure strict security arrangements across the province during Chand Raat and Eidul Azha, with full implementation of security SOPs.

Chairing a meeting, the chief minister ordered the installation of metal detectors and walk-through gates at Eid prayer venues and instructed assistant commissioners to coordinate with religious scholars regarding security and cleanliness measures.

She also directed enhanced security at sensitive locations, increased patrolling in markets on Chand Raat and deployment of women police personnel.

Authorities were instructed to carry out real-time monitoring through the Safe City Authority system and strictly enforce the ban on camps set up by banned organisations for collecting sacrificial hides.

District police officers were also ordered to prevent the spread of hate material and take action against one-wheeling, aerial firing and hooliganism during the holidays.

Home Secretary Ahmad Javed Qazi said Eid prayers would be held at more than 38,000 locations across Punjab. Section 144 has been imposed to ban public roasting of siri paye, while action will also be taken against improper disposal of animal waste in drains and public places.

Meanwhile, Punjab Police said over 4,000 personnel have been deployed for security at 222 cattle markets across the province, including more than 600 officers assigned to six cattle markets in Lahore.

IG Abdul Kareem directed authorities to ensure the safety of traders and buyers and warned that action would be taken against illegal cattle markets and unauthorised sale points.