RAWALPINDI: The police have been directed to tighten security around several senior politicians including the Punjab chief minister, the governor and ministers after intelligence reports suggested the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Sheheryar Mehsud Group was planning to target high profile political personalities in Punjab.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab retired Capt Usman Khattak has directed divisional police chiefs, the Counter Terrorism Department, Special Branch and all city police officers across the province to tighten security around senior politicians.

A directive issued by the IGP to the police said all possible measures must be taken to ensure the politicians are safe.

The IGP has also directed them to carry out intelligence based operations and combing operations in and around target areas so that those who want to carry out the attacks in Punjab cannot do so easily.

The police have also been directed to deploy extra police and be vigilant around vital installations including important buildings, hospitals, recreational places and markets.

A senior security official told Dawn the threat from TTP cannot be taken lightly. He said there had been threats before but this was a serious one, and the police are taking measures to ensure these people are protected.

The police have already advised prominent politicians and foreign experts working on different development projects to inform the police before leaving for any public gathering or work place.

The intelligence had also warned that in light of the events in Afghanistan, backlash can be expected in Lahore and Islamabad and that the terror group has already dispatched people to target vital installations and important political figures.

Law enforcement agencies have been directed to be extra vigilant in protecting major public figures and vital installations and that the security of worship places, Ramazan bazaars and shopping centres should be ensured especially in Ramazan.

Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2017