March 19, 2008	Wednesday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 10, 1429

LAHORE, March 18: There persists a threat of terrorist acts by some extremists in Punjab, alerts a fresh security reminder issued by the provincial government to the police higher-ups.

A letter carrying the warning has been circulated in all police offices across the province after the bomb blast in a popular hang-out of foreigners in Islamabad the other day.

It says: “The likely targets of the terrorists may be the VIPs, security personnel, Army/Air Force/Navy installations, police personnel, government buildings, foreign missions, multinational companies, foreign food outlets, key installations and public gatherings.”A senior police officer is of the view that though it is an uphill task to completely prevent suicide attacks, repeated security directives after terrorism acts can at least alert the police force and minimise the risk of terrorism.

“Extra vigilance and alertness is a major concern for the police which is lacking despite repeated directives,” he said.

The government has directed a comprehensive check of security arrangements for all buildings/establishments concerning foreigners, at least once in a day and once during night to ensure alertness of security staff. “A vigilant eye should be kept on the movements/presence of suspicious vehicles/persons.

“And the people already involved in any terrorist activity, hardened criminals and those belonging to banned organisations, should be strictly watched. The activists who are on bail from courts also should be kept on watch list,” the letter added.

EID-I-MILAD SECURITY: The Punjab police have been directed to adopt ‘extra vigilance’ to prevent terrorism threat on the Eid-i-Milad to be held on March 21.

A written security directive issued by the provincial government states that though it is a sacred religious event and has great importance for Muslims of all sects, miscreants as well foreign-sponsored terrorists may cause disturbance to destabilise religious harmony.

The police have been directed to adopt ‘maximum restraint’ for peaceful gatherings and processions and protect/cover these gatherings on the pattern of Muharram arrangements. Cases under anti-terrorism act be registered against those trying to destroy public and private property, read the message.