Considering the seriousness of the security threat attached with the finding of a bag containing a hand grenade. And explosives within the vicinity of the PTI rally site. Islamabad police have increased security measures in all parts of the city. The district administration had declared a “red alert”, calling out further forces. And more police units to enforce order during the occasion and after as well.
Access to key entrances and exits including GT Road and Red zone surroundings have been sealed using containers in order to control the movement of people and vehicles into the hot zones. According to the available information, the precautionary measures are meant to curb any untoward incidence which could arise in the course of the rally and the safety of both the rally-goers and the civilians residing within the city.
Bomb Disposal Task Force and forensic experts IncreasedÂ
In view of the fact that explosives were found, a bomb disposal task force was created on the site. The task unit managed to deactivate the hand grenade addressing the undying danger posed by the other explosives. Today forensics have bagged the content of the bag. And are currently overstretching the basing evidences for the case of explosive. Likewise, it is needed to determine whether or not this act is solely aimed at cause trouble during the rally or there are other malicious intentions.
PTI Leadership’s Response to the Threat IncreasedÂ
As a responsible politician PTI leaders have condemned the attempted threat. And have assured the public that all necessary precautions are being made so the rally goes on in a safe manner. Senior PTI members have sought to bring down the nerves of their supporters stating that they should work with the security agencies. And that there is no need to propagate panic. A representative of the party during a press briefing noted that the rally is for the sake of democracy. And it will not block any threats from implementing its resolution. Although scared, PTI leaders encouraged their supporters to come out in numbers for the rally. Believing that the authorities could handle the situation.
Public Safety and Traffic Advisory
Trying to reach the rally by entering from any end will not be possible as the rallies are likely to be surrounded from all sides. And the Red Zone is expected to be in lock down. Instructions have been given to other people travelling towards the said National Stadium that specified intervals/ periods should be avoided and new routes created. In terms of traffic control, notices have been issued asking people to use alternative routes or refrain from their knowledge. When the time on the mass chronicines is at its peak periods. Some other public transport systems were still in operation. But this time round a number of the bus services were not operating within the secured areas. And instead were transporting people outside those restrictive parameters.
