SUKKUR: A mock exercise of terrorists’ attack on the central prison was organised on Wednesday to check preparedness of jail wardens, security system and response from other law enforcement agencies.

Personnel of Pakistan Army, Rangers, jail police, district police, district administration, health department and ambulance services took part in the exercise.

During the exercise, as the mock terrorists launched an attack on the prison from three sides the jail security personnel rapidly moved into action and overpowered them with the assistance of other security agencies including Pakistan Army.

It was also checked during the exercise that CCTV cameras were working properly and the time of the response from security personnel concerned, civil departments, fire brigade, ambulances etc, was also noted.

Sukkur DIG Prisons A.G. Siddiqui told journalists that the central prison Sukkur-I faced a threat of an attack by terrorists. The mock exercise had been organised to check the preparedness of jail security staff, working of CCTV cameras installed in the jail and response from the personnel of other law enforcement agencies including Rangers, Pakistan Army, district police, he said.

He appreciated the performance of security personnel, their rapid response and the gallantry with which they handled the situation. With joint strategy and efforts the security personnel were in a position to face any kind of situation easily, he said.

The DIG said that jail administration and police in coordination with different security agencies were ready to cope with any threat. Patrolling of the prison had been increased round the clock, he added.

Published in Dawn, July 24th , 2014