Cellular Suspension in Karachi Likely On New Year Eve

Under a security plan for Dec 31, the Sindh home department has been requested to ban pillion riding for 12 hours — starting from 5pm,” said SSP Imran Shaukat, the Sindh police spokesman.

“It has also been requested to ask the federal government for suspension of mobile phone service for the same time.”

He said the proposal had been forwarded amid intelligence reports that terrorists might target New Year celebrations in the city.

“The Sea View area will be sealed on Dec 31 and people will not be allowed to visit the place. Only the residents of the area may leave and enter it after meeting due formalities,” he said.

The home department had also been asked to ban carrying of arms, he said and added that strict measures were being taken to check aerial firing throughout the city.

the police will initiate the city-wide ban from 5 p.m. on Dec. 31, 2012, to 5 a.m on Jan. 1, 2013. Carrying and firing of firearms are also prohibited, said Imran Shaukat, police spokesperson for Sindh. Karachi is the capital of the province of Sindh as well as the largest city in Pakistan.

Imran pointed out these measures would ensure the security of citizens’ lives and property. Karachi residents should inform police of any violations and their names would be kept confidential, he added.

Sindh Inspector General of Police Fayyaz Ahmed Leghari said in a statement Saturday that all police departments need to create a comprehensive joint strategy to maintain law and order in the province on New Year’s Eve, the report noted.

Last Friday the government of Karachi suddenly suspended mobile phone services for eight hours due to intelligence reports of a terrorist plan to carry out widespread target killings and trigger remote-controlled explosions