Lahore: Punjab Police remained on high alert and ensured comprehensive security arrangements during Christian worship and prayer services held in churches across the province, including Lahore, on Sunday.
According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab Abdul Kareem had directed all Regional Police Officers (RPOs), District Police Officers (DPOs) and senior police officers to further strengthen security arrangements for churches and other sensitive places.
The IG instructed supervisory officers to personally inspect security arrangements at churches, important installations and vulnerable locations. He also ordered the deployment of additional police personnel and snipers at sensitive churches to ensure the safety of worshipers.
He directed teams of the Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU) and Elite Force to maintain effective patrolling around churches and remain vigilant throughout the prayer services.
Abdul Kareem further instructed that deployed police officers and personnel should maintain a high state of alert and keep a close watch on suspicious and anti-social elements. He also ordered the continuation of search and sweep operations in the vicinity of churches, Christian localities and other sensitive areas.
The IG Punjab urged religious scholars, members of the Christian community and peace committees to continue promoting interfaith harmony, mutual respect and unity to help maintain a peaceful environment across the province.