RAWALPINDI: The garrison city police provided foolproof security on important occasions, especially during cricket matches between Pakistan and other international teams, to 447 Muharram processions and 1,925 majalis in 2024.

Besides, they provided “high priority” protection to Chinese nationals and other foreigners working on development projects or engaged in business activities in Rawalpindi district in the outgoing year.

The Rawalpindi police provided the best security to heads of state of 11 countries and delegations visiting Pakistan for a week-long Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.

A police official said the security of Chinese nationals had been divided into three categories. The Chinese working in government-run projects were placed on “high priority” and were provided security by the district police, Special Protection Unit (SPU) and the army.

Chinese, falling in the second category, worked in private projects, and their security was the responsibility of SPU and the district police.

The ‘loose’ Chinese were those who run their own business and were provided security by the police station concerned and were recommended to live in safe areas.

On the occasion of Eid Miladun Nabi, Rawalpindi police made excellent security arrangements. Likewise, on the occasion of Eidul Fitr and Eidul Azha, foolproof security arrangements were ensured by Rawalpindi police.

The spokesman said that during 2024, four international cricket teams played Test, ODI and T20 cricket matches at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. They were from England, New Zealand, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

This year, 11 PSL matches were played in Rawalpindi.

During the PSL matches, effective and foolproof security arrangements were made by the Rawalpindi police, said the spokesman.

Similarly, Rawalpindi police provided security to heads of 37 countries who visited Pakistan during the outgoing year.

This year, seven polio campaigns were organised in Rawalpindi, for which the police provided effective security to polio workers and teams.

Rawalpindi police are always busy in eliminating criminal elements, establishing law and order, and protecting the lives and property of citizens, the spokesman said.

Published in Dawn, December 19th, 2024