Security Alert Raised in Ziarat After Reports of Suspected Armed Men; Police Ordered to Step Up Patrols
ZIARAT: Security has been placed on high alert in Balochistan’s Ziarat district following reports of renewed movement and alleged presence of suspected armed men in several areas.
Acting on information provided by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Balochistan, Ziarat District Police Officer Abdul Malik Durrani issued a special directive to the DSP/SDPOs of Ziarat and Sanjavi and all station house officers (SHOs) across the district, instructing them to exercise extreme vigilance and further strengthen security and preventive measures.
According to police sources, an intelligence report received from the CTD stated that the suspected individuals had not been seen along some important roads and routes for nearly a week, but reports of their presence resurfaced on the previous day.
The report said the suspected individuals were spotted in the Samal Ziarri area. Police authorities were subsequently directed to closely monitor the situation.
According to the report, the suspected individuals also visited a local shop in the area to purchase some items. After leaving the shop, they allegedly stopped some passersby, checked their identity cards and mobile phones, and then allowed them to continue their journey.
The incident has reportedly raised concern among local residents and travelers.
The CTD information further stated that four armed men were reportedly seen near a school in the Sastha Thangi area. The individuals allegedly patrolled the area and remained there for some time before reportedly returning towards the vicinity of Samal Ziarri at around 6pm.
Police officials said reports of continued movement and the alleged presence of suspected armed individuals in different areas were being taken seriously.
The report also mentioned concerns among residents of Kali Ziarri, Spin Maghzi and Tor Sukhar. Some families in these areas were reportedly considering moving their family members to safer locations because of concerns over the suspected individuals’ presence and movement.
Police have instructed officers and personnel in the relevant areas to maintain close surveillance of unusual activities and take necessary preventive measures.
In his directive, DPO Abdul Malik Durrani ordered the DSP/SDPOs and all SHOs to maintain a high level of vigilance and strengthen security arrangements within their respective jurisdictions to prevent any untoward incident and respond promptly to any law-and-order situation.
The officers were also directed to take necessary security and preventive measures within their respective areas of responsibility and submit reports on the steps taken to senior authorities within the prescribed timeframe.
Police sources said patrols, surveillance and monitoring of suspicious activities had been increased in sensitive areas. Local police were instructed to immediately respond to reports of suspicious persons or activities and inform the relevant authorities.
According to sources, the security measures are aimed at addressing potential threats in advance and preventing any untoward incident. Police personnel have been directed to demonstrate heightened caution and professional vigilance while performing their duties.
