ISLAMABAD: Security preparations have been intensified in Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Attock ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) march planned for September 27, with the total Punjab Police deployment in the three areas being increased to around 50,000 personnel, according to police sources.
Personnel from different districts and police units have started moving towards Attock, Rawalpindi and Islamabad as authorities prepare security arrangements for the planned political activity. Recent reports have also put the combined deployment across Islamabad and Attock at more than 50,000 personnel.
30,000 Personnel to Be Deployed in Attock
According to police sources, around 30,000 officers and personnel, including eight deputy inspectors general (DIGs) and 15 senior superintendents of police (SSPs), will perform security duties in Attock.
Around 6,000 additional personnel are expected to be deployed in Rawalpindi, while between 10,000 and 12,000 Punjab Police personnel are being allocated to support security arrangements in Islamabad.
The personnel are being drawn from the Punjab Constabulary, district police, Punjab Highway Patrol, Special Protection Unit and Elite Force, among other units.
Tear Gas and Armoured Vehicles Prepared
Police sources said funds of around Rs900 million had been released for the movement and deployment of personnel.
Authorities have also arranged 100,000 tear-gas shells and 3,000 tear-gas guns, while 10 armoured vehicles are being provided to the relevant regions. Another 20,000 tear-gas shells are expected to be supplied in the coming days, according to police sources.
Islamabad Police has separately sought additional personnel and riot-control equipment for the planned protest. Reports indicate that Islamabad Police requested 16,000 personnel from Punjab and 2,000 from Sindh.
Security Measures Expanded in Islamabad
Security has been placed on high alert in Islamabad’s Red Zone and Extended Red Zone, while additional measures are being prepared at key entry points.
Police are also arranging containers, sandbags and other equipment as part of the security plan. Recent reporting indicates that more than 2,000 containers have been moved into Islamabad and Attock, while police are preparing for an expected protester presence in the capital.
The final security deployment will be determined according to the situation and the authorities’ assessment closer to September 27.
The PTI has announced the march for September 27, while party leaders have said they intend to proceed with the planned political activity.
Separately, the Islamabad High Court has issued directions concerning political marches and the use of government resources, including instructions aimed at preventing disruption to citizens’ movement and access to public facilities.