As the holy month of Ramadan nears its end, law enforcement agencies in Punjab and Peshawar have intensified their security arrangements in preparation for Chand Raat, Jumuat-ul-Wida, and the upcoming Eidul Fitr celebrations. Authorities are deploying a significant number of police personnel across bustling markets, mosques, Eid congregations, and other vulnerable sites to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incidents amid rising security concerns.
In Punjab, the provincial police force has put the entire region on high alert, with a particular focus on Lahore, the provincial capital. Inspector General Abdul Karim emphasized the importance of heightened vigilance during this period, noting that over 17,000 officers, including a substantial number of women police personnel, have been strategically positioned at crowded marketplaces and other critical public venues to manage the anticipated surge in activity on Chand Raat. Lahore alone will see 5,000 officers dedicated to maintaining order on the eve of Eid, with an additional 10,000 deployed on the day of Eid itself.
Beyond Lahore, the security apparatus extends throughout Punjab, where more than 47,000 police officers and staff members will be tasked with securing upwards of 29,000 Eid prayer gatherings. This large-scale deployment underscores the authorities’ commitment to ensuring the safety of worshippers and the general public during one of the most significant religious occasions in the Islamic calendar.
To bolster these efforts, the Punjab Inspector General has instructed police forces to work closely with specialized units such as the Special Branch, Counter-Terrorism Department, and other security agencies. Their mandate includes rigorous monitoring of potential threats, including terrorists, troublemakers, and suspicious individuals. Enhanced security measures have also been implemented at critical points such as interprovincial borders, riverine police stations, city entrances and exits, police checkpoints, foreign diplomatic missions, and other sensitive installations.
Moreover, security has been stepped up at more than 32,500 mosques, imambargahs, and other places of worship across Punjab. To support this, over 83,000 police officers and community volunteers have been mobilized to ensure the safety of congregants. Elite units such as the Dolphin Squad, Police Rescue Unit (PRU), and Elite Force have been ordered to increase patrols around religious sites, busy commercial areas, and other vulnerable spots. The use of CCTV surveillance has been intensified to provide real-time monitoring and quick response capabilities.
Meanwhile, in Peshawar, the police department has finalized a comprehensive security strategy tailored for Chand Raat and Eidul Fitr. More than 5,000 officers and personnel will be deployed throughout the city to maintain law and order during the festive period. Special attention is being given to the sweeping of Eidgahs and mosques by bomb disposal units ahead of prayer times to eliminate any potential threats.
Women police officers, alongside specialized squads such as the Ababeel Squad and the City Patrolling Force, will be actively engaged in maintaining security. The city’s entry and exit points, along with other sensitive locations, have been placed under heightened alert. Undercover officers are also tasked with monitoring suspicious activities to preempt any security breaches.
To further enhance safety in crowded marketplaces, Peshawar police are employing mounted units, sniffer dogs, and drone surveillance technology. Citywide patrolling has been increased, and armored vehicles along with rapid response teams remain on standby to address any emergencies swiftly. Capital City Police Officer Dr. Mian Saeed Ahmed has directed divisional Senior Superintendents of Police to ensure the thorough implementation of the security plan without any lapses.
Authorities in both Punjab and Peshawar have appealed to the public to stay alert and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies. They stressed that community vigilance and collaboration are crucial to securing a peaceful and joyous observance of the last Friday of Ramadan and the subsequent Eid festivities. These enhanced security measures reflect the ongoing commitment of the police to safeguard citizens during one of the most spiritually significant and widely celebrated occasions in Pakistan.
