RAWALPINDI: The divisional police chiefs, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and Special Branch have been instructed to closely monitor activities of proscribed organisations and initiate action if they found collecting sacrificial animals hides on Eidul Azha.

The government’s policy for collection of hides be followed in later and spirit. Intensive patrolling on highways and cattle markets during eid holidays should be made to ensure the safety of commuters.

The Punjab police chief issued a guideline for the law enforcement agencies regarding “security arrangements for cattle markets across the province during Eidul Azha 2024” directing them to launch a crackdown on activities of proscribed organisations which are involved in any unlawful activities, and special attention should be given to control street crimes, road robberies and cattle theft during the Eid holidays.

Under the guideline, the police have been directed to establish police pickets at vital points, including cattle markets. It has been observed that street crimes, cash snatching and highway robberies increase on Eidul Azha.

Law enforcement agencies have been asked to carry out regular snap checking near busty commercial centers, banks, shopping malls and vulnerable areas under the direct supervision of district police heads.

Foolproof security arrangements shall be ensured for public recreational places, parks, Eid bazaars, shopping malls, restaurants and all historical places.

The guidelines said that the local governments had provided facilities at cattle markets which included cleanliness, shelter and tents, generator lights, veterinary facilities and fodder. Additionally, the district administration will make security arrangements, traffic control, parking space, and health coverage for buyers/sellers, preventive measures for dengue/lumpy skin disease, and tick borne disease (Congo fever), facilitation centers and complaints cells, prayer areas, drinking water for human and sacrificial animals, public toilets at the markets.

The bomb disposal squad will be called upon for assistance during all three stages of the Eid preparations. Coordination with the intelligence agencies and CTD may be made in order to take proper precautions and avert any undesirable situation.

Published in Dawn, May 22nd, 2024