A major security operation, comprising over 8,500 police officers and additional contingents from other law enforcement agencies, has been launched today to secure Garhi Khuda Bakhsh and its surrounding areas on the occasion of the 18th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Ms. Benazir Bhutto.
These extensive arrangements were also reviewed in a high-level meeting at the SSP Office Larkana on Saturday morning, presided over by Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar. The meeting was attended by the DIG and SSP Larkana, along with other district officials.
During the briefing, the SSP Larkana confirmed that a force of 8,500 police personnel is being deployed for the anniversary ceremonies. This number has been further strengthened by additional personnel provided by the Central Police Office, which is now at Larkana’s disposal.
The security forces also include special units, including the deployment of female police officers and the Rapid Response Force to manage the expected large crowd.
The process of comprehensive sweeping and clearance of all main highways, VVIP routes, and other important locations is underway. The sweeping of the mausoleum, the public meeting venue, and adjacent areas was scheduled to be completed on the night of December 26.
Technical surveillance has been significantly upgraded with the permanent installation of solar-powered night vision cameras at the mausoleum, the event venue, and key routes. This new system has replaced the 130 temporary cameras previously used.
Security has been further strengthened with the installation of permanent cameras at the entry and exit points of the Katcha areas, from where continuous monitoring and response operations are being managed by the Aqil Shah Police Station. All police posts in the region have been renovated and made fully functional.
A four-tier strict security protocol will be implemented at the mausoleum. Participants will be prohibited from carrying any kind of bag, shopper, or luggage into the main public meeting area. Special plainclothes police teams will be active inside the venue to monitor and identify any suspicious individuals.
Home Minister Lanjar ordered that “foolproof security arrangements” be ensured throughout the province on this occasion. He directed the deployment of additional contingents of police, Rangers, and other law enforcement agencies at the public meeting venue, its entry and exit points, and parking areas.
“To deal with any untoward incident, ensure strict surveillance through intelligence monitoring, walk-through gates, metal detectors, and CCTV cameras,” the minister directed. He also called for the formulation of a traffic plan with alternative routes to ensure the convenience and security of citizens.
Mr. Lanjar issued a stern warning, stating that no one would be allowed to disrupt the law and order situation.
A spokesperson for the Home Minister appealed to the public to cooperate with the security agencies and to immediately report any suspicious activity.