Foolproof security arrangements made: Malik

ISLAMABAD: The government has made foolproof security arrangements during Muharramul Haram to protect citizens and avert any terrorist activity in the country, said Interior Minister Rehman Malik.

Talking to newsmen Thursday while visiting 9th Muharram, he some anti-state elements always remain busy to destabilize the country. However, due to adequate security measures "they will fail to fulfill their nefarious designs. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are being implemented in true spirit in Islamabad and other parts of the country.

He noted cooperation between ulema of both sects is "exemplary who practically evinced unity, integrity. On Wednesday night there were reports of any attempt of act of terrorism in Muharram procession in Gujranwala. Interior Ministry immediately conveyed this information to concerned security officials and security was enhanced keeping in view the situation and procession concluded safely.

"I had issued special instructions to officials of Gujranwala late night, which had been fully followed to protect citizens. Same security measures were adopted in other districts of Punjab including Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi to avert from any untoward situation.

"Besides cities of Punjab, situation is also under control in Karachi, Quetta, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and directions issued to officials to utilize all resources to provide full security during Muharram," Malik added.

He said situation in D Il Khan is "tense. All security arrangements have been made. We provided two helicopters to each province for surveillance of sensitive areas. Ulema of Parachinar signed peace agreement. Police, Rangers, Frontier Constabulary are on stand by. We are looking after all things vigorously with assurance there will be complete peace during this Muharram."

On bomb blast in Iran, he said President and Prime Minister expressed grief. "I personally sent condolence message to Iran's Interior minister. We are suffering in same way. We stand with Iran and show full solidarity not being a Muslim country but a neighbor friend and extend full support. If they need any help or information we are ready and are at their disposal. If terrorism is initiated in Pakistan or any neighbor country whether Iran or any other, we will not tolerate it."

"We are ready to provide unconditional support to every one who is suffering from terrorism as we also suffer from it. We don't want to see our friends, brothers and sisters in suffering in any country.

Jandullah is a terrorist organization. We have done our best and are ready to take further action if we receive any information," Minister stated.