Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has taken decisive steps to bolster security across the province by ordering an escalation in surveillance activities and the continuation of thorough combing operations. This move comes in response to growing concerns over the prevailing security environment, prompting authorities to remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining law and order. The chief minister convened a high-level security meeting where senior officials provided a comprehensive briefing on the current situation.
During the meeting, Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of rigorous monitoring, particularly focusing on individuals listed under the Fourth Schedule as well as other potentially active elements posing threats to public safety. She highlighted the need for enhanced vigilance in light of the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, which has added an extra layer of complexity to the security landscape. Consequently, the provincial administration has been instructed to place Punjab on a heightened state of alert to preempt any untoward incidents.
In line with these directives, security arrangements have been tightened at key public venues including shopping malls, major marketplaces, and other crowded areas where large gatherings are common. Police forces and district administrations across all districts have been tasked with maintaining strict surveillance and conducting thorough checks on suspicious individuals. Additionally, the effectiveness of inspections at entry and exit points throughout the province has been reinforced to prevent unauthorized movements and potential threats.
Maryam Nawaz also ordered the deployment of additional security personnel at vital commercial centers and stressed the need to intensify search and combing operations in sensitive and high-risk zones. She underscored the importance of a swift and coordinated response to any security breach, making it clear that no individual or group would be permitted to undermine the rule of law or take matters into their own hands.
The officials present at the briefing reported that the security threats remain persistent and credible, which justified the decision to maintain the province on high alert. As part of these measures, Section 144 has been imposed throughout Punjab until March 7, prohibiting gatherings of four or more people to curb the risk of terrorism and disturbances to public order. This legal restriction aims to prevent any large-scale protests or assemblies that could potentially escalate tensions.
Furthermore, the meeting reviewed ongoing efforts to manage the repatriation of foreign nationals residing illegally within the province. To date, Punjab has deported 32,729 undocumented individuals, including a significant number of Afghan nationals. Among those deported are 12,356 men, 6,673 women, and 13,700 children, reflecting a broad demographic. Currently, 346 individuals remain at holding points awaiting deportation. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance internal security and regulate foreign presence in the province.
Additional security protocols include a comprehensive ban on public gatherings of more than three people and a prohibition on the display of weapons in public spaces across Punjab. Authorities are also closely monitoring social media platforms to identify and take legal action against anyone disseminating content that threatens national security or incites unrest. The meeting was attended by key officials including Chief Secretary Zahid Zaman, Home Secretary Ahmad Javed Qazi, Additional IG Special Branch, CTD representatives, and other relevant security personnel, all committed to ensuring the safety and stability of the province during this sensitive period.
