Major terrorist bid foiled, targeting Muharram processions

Major terrorist bid foiled, targeting Muharram processions

ISLAMABAD - Security forces on Tuesday thwarted a major terrorist bid in Balochistan on the eve of the holy month of Muharram, the military said.

The Frontier Corps carried out an intelligence-based operation in Zhob and recovered 21 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), weighting 235kg, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPRR).

The IEDs were to be used to target the Muharram processions in various parts of the province, said the statement. The operation was part of the Radd-ul- Fasaad, a military operation launched in February 2017.

Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies have taken strict security measures to avoid any untoward incident during the holy month of Muharram commencing across the country from today. CCTV cameras, walk-through gates, metal detectors and other advanced equipment have been installed for the security of Muharram processions and religious gatherings. Additional contingents of police along with paramilitary rangers will also be deployed to ensure security during Muharram. Xinhua