Punjab Police have intensified security and search operations across the province during Muharram-ul-Haram, deploying more than 31,000 police personnel to protect mourning processions and religious gatherings. According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, strict arrangements were ensured on the fourth day of Muharram under the directions of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Kareem.
Processions and Gatherings Under Security Cover
A total of 278 mourning processions and 3,907 majalis were held across Punjab under comprehensive security cover. In Lahore alone, 17 processions and 412 majalis took place, with thousands of police officers deployed. More than 23,000 community volunteers assisted law enforcement agencies in crowd management and security support.
IGP Abdul Kareem stated that the enforcement of Section 144, imposed by the Government of Punjab, is being strictly ensured. Aerial firing, display of weapons, dissemination of hate material, and any provocative activity are strictly prohibited during Muharram. No procession or gathering is allowed outside approved routes and designated venues.
Surveillance and Coordination
All activities are closely monitored through surveillance cameras of the Safe Cities Authority and district monitoring systems. Control rooms in all districts remain fully operational and linked with the Central Control Room at the Central Police Office for real-time coordination. Security agencies including the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin Squad, and Police Response Units (PRU) have been deployed in all districts to ensure a peaceful environment.
The IGP stressed that strict legal action would be taken against individuals involved in violations, including those spreading hate material or engaging in provocative behavior on social media. He reiterated that maintaining peace and religious harmony during Muharram is the top priority of Punjab Police.
Search Operations and Crackdown
Alongside Muharram security, a province-wide crackdown against criminal and suspicious elements continues. Over the last 24 hours, 426 search operations were conducted across Punjab. During these operations, 13,524 individuals were questioned, and 32 suspects were arrested. Police also registered 24 cases against individuals involved in suspicious or unlawful activities.
IGP Abdul Kareem said that indiscriminate operations against anti-state, miscreant, and criminal elements will continue throughout Muharram to ensure law and order. He directed all field officers to make search operations more effective and maintain close surveillance over suspicious individuals and activities. The primary objective is to ensure the peaceful conduct of mourning processions and majalis without any security disruption.
Public Cooperation and Commitment
Authorities have reiterated that Muharram security remains a top priority, utilizing all available resources to maintain peace, protect citizens, and ensure smooth observance of religious rituals. Punjab Police appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement and report any suspicious activity immediately to nearby police stations or helplines. With thousands of personnel deployed, extensive surveillance systems in place, and continuous search operations underway, Punjab Police say they are fully committed to ensuring a peaceful and secure Muharram across the province.
