RAWALPINDI: As the judgment in the Avenfield properties reference against former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and son-in-law retired Captain Mohammad Safdar will be announced in Islamabad on Friday, the police in the garrison city have decided to remain on high alert.

“Though we don’t expect any strong retaliation on the eve of the accountability court’s decision, we are taking all precautionary measures to maintain peace in the city,” said City Police Officer (CPO) Abbas Ahsan.

He said as a part of precautionary measures, extra police personnel would be deployed in the city with an increase in patrolling in some areas.

Extra police check points have been established and random checking of vehicles has been stated in addition to tightening security at the exit and entry points of the city. Anti-riot squads will be deployed in different parts of the city.

“We don’t expect any reaction from political workers but we are tightening security around sensitive installations and government buildings to ensure the safety of public lives and property,” the CPO said.

He warned that the police would take action against anyone trying to create law and order situation.

Mr Sharif along with his daughter has been in the United Kingdom since June 14 due to the ailment of his spouse Kulsoom Nawaz. The former prime minister has already sought a delay to the pronouncement of the judgment. He has said he would return to Pakistan but has not given any date.

Published in Dawn, July 6th, 2018