Malik announces lifting curfew, mobile service restoration in Gilgit

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Rehman Malik announced lifting of curfew and restoration of mobile service in Gilgit from Saturday night.

Talking to newsmen here today with Chief Minister Gilgit Baltistan Syed Mehdi Shah after a meeting which reviewed the law and order situation in Gilgit‚ Malik said several persons were arrested following acts of violence in Gilgit. He assured that those found innocent would be released soon.

Minister said Police force strength in Gilgit would be increased to 10,000 from the present 5,000. Frontier Corps and Rangers personnel have also been directed to assist Gilgit Baltistan government in the maintenance of law and order, he added. FIA office will also be set up in Gilgit as part of efforts to improve the situation.

Malik said that religious scholars were also being taken on board in order to promote religious harmony in Gilgit and other areas.