Processions, rallies banned in Islamabad

All entrance and exit points of the Capital have been sealed, and a ban has been imposed on taking out processions and rallies here following Tuesdays blast that killed at least 16 people and left several others injured.

Islamabad, July 18 : All entrance and exit points of the Capital have been sealed, and a ban has been imposed on taking out processions and rallies here following Tuesday's blast that killed at least 16 people and left several others injured.

The ban, however, does not apply to Friday prayers and other religious gatherings.

The decision was taken in view of the threat to law and order, and to maintain sectarian harmony in Islamabad.

Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Malik Muhammad Iqbal said that everyone, including pedestrians and motorists, would be checked before entering or leaving the city.

The CCPO said the city was already on high alert ever since the Operation Silence, and he has briefed all town police officers (TPOs) and superintendents of police (SPs) about the city's security measures.

The Daily Times quoted him as saying, that a meeting reviewed security arrangements and officials were deputed around all important government and foreign buildings, congested public places, business and recreational areas.

ANI