Quetta (12 June 2026): Inspector General of Police (IGP) Balochistan Muhammad Tahir has announced that comprehensive and foolproof security arrangements are being finalized across the province for Muharram-ul-Haram to ensure peace and protection of mourners.
He stated that government-issued SOPs will be strictly implemented and full security will be provided to organizers of processions and religious gatherings.
High-level meeting on interfaith harmony
The remarks were made during a high-level meeting on Muharram security and inter-sect harmony, attended by senior civil, military, law enforcement officials, religious scholars from different schools of thought, and representatives of the trader community.
Key participants included senior officials from the police, Frontier Corps, district administration, and representatives of religious and social organizations.
Aerial surveillance and sniper deployment
Briefing the meeting, the IG Police announced major security measures, including:
- Continuous CCTV monitoring of all sensitive locations and imambargahs
- Aerial surveillance of central 9th and 10th Muharram processions
- Deployment of snipers on rooftops along procession routes
- Deployment of female police personnel for security and checking at women’s gatherings
Religious scholars and traders pledge cooperation
Religious leaders emphasized the significance of Karbala and the message of Imam Hussain (RA), pledging to counter sectarian propaganda and promote unity, tolerance, and national harmony through sermons and community engagement.
Trader representatives assured full cooperation with law enforcement agencies, including implementation of route-based shop closures and other security protocols.
Civic and essential services on high alert
The Commissioner of Quetta Division directed municipal bodies to ensure cleanliness, street lighting, and water supply along procession routes.
QESCO and Sui Southern Gas Company were instructed to maintain uninterrupted power and gas supply, while the Health Department was ordered to remain on high alert with additional medical staff, ambulances, and emergency facilities during Muharram.