KARACHI, Nov 15: Police on Friday beefed up security in the city in view of a possible backlash in the aftermath of the execution of Aimal Kasi in the United States.

A bomb-like device was found wrapped in a black polythene bag in front of Lakshmi Building in Kharadar, that created panic in the area. People informed police of the suspicious bag lying on the footpath in front of the building.

Police called the Bomb Disposal Squad, who found that the bag contained a PVC pipe filled with sand and attached to a timer.

Police said the bag did not contain explosives, and it might have been placed at a public place to create terror among the people.

Police sources said security had been beefed up in the city and trained commandos had been deployed at sensitive places, including foreign consulates, offices of high commissions, residences of foreign dignitaries, multinational companies, important installations, churches, and temples. Security had also been beefed up at the airport, railway stations, entry and exit routes to the city, shopping centres, commercial and trade centres and other places.

Police patrolling had been intensified throughout the city and deployment was enhanced at sensitive places where violent protests and demonstrations against Aimal Kasi’s execution were feared.

Law-enforcement personnel were also deputed at mosques and Imambargahs to provide security to people for Juma prayers.

A senior police officer said the high alert would continue to meet any eventuality.

Sources said extra security measures were taken in view of possible terrorist attacks, especially on US interests, after threats were received by the CIA in some countries.