NATIONAL NEWS
LAHORE: In the wake of the deadly suicide bombing in Islamabad, Punjab authorities have intensified security across the province, citing the attack’s proximity as a serious concern for public safety.
Senior officials from the Punjab government stated that while the province has remained largely peaceful in recent years, it has not been immune to militant violence in the past — a reminder that vigilance must remain high.
The move comes after a suicide blast outside a court complex in Islamabad, which killed at least 12 people and injured more than 30 others. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif** described the attack as an attempt by militants to signal their continued presence and reach within Pakistan.
Authorities have attributed the attack to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), whose leadership is reportedly based in Afghanistan. Islamabad has consistently accused Kabul of providing safe havens and support to militants conducting cross-border assaults on Pakistani soil.
A circular issued by the Punjab Home Department called the bombing a “cowardly act of terrorism” that highlighted the ongoing threat from extremist groups. It emphasized the need for a swift and proactive security response across the province to prevent any potential spillover of violence.
The official directive, labeled “Most Immediate,” ordered police, counterterrorism units, and administrative officials to enhance security deployments in key urban centers including Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan.
It further instructed law enforcement to tighten surveillance and protection in sensitive installations, densely populated zones, and high-value targets throughout Punjab.
“The situation demands heightened vigilance and readiness at all levels,” the notification warned, as authorities work to fortify the province against any possible terrorist activity following the Islamabad attack.
