Islamabad on High Alert Following Militant Assault on Security Checkpoint
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Synopsis
Islamabad has been placed on high alert after a militant attack on a security checkpoint near the Punjab-KP border. All access to the Red Zone has been closed indefinitely as authorities respond to the threat posed by armed terrorists. Security forces successfully defended against the assault, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining safety.
Key Takeaways
- Islamabad on high alert due to militant activity.
- All access points to the Red Zone closed indefinitely.
- Attack involved 15-20 armed militants.
- Security forces successfully defended the Lakhani Check Post.
- Previous attacks on the checkpoint indicate ongoing threats.
Islamabad, March 8 (NationPress) The capital of Pakistan, Islamabad, has been placed on heightened alert as authorities have closed all access points to the 'Red Zone' indefinitely after a significant attack on a checkpoint located on the Punjab–Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) border by 15 to 20 militants in the early morning hours of Saturday.
The Federal capital, particularly the Red Zone—which includes key government buildings such as the President's House, Prime Minister's House, National Assembly of Pakistan, Senate of Pakistan, Foreign Office, the diplomatic enclave, Supreme Court of Pakistan, and other critical offices—has been secured, with all access routes shut down until further notice.
A threat alert was issued shortly after security forces stationed at the Lakhani Check Post on the border of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa faced a major terrorist assault earlier that day.
According to police sources, approximately 15 to 20 heavily-armed terrorists launched a pre-dawn attack on the checkpoint, utilizing rocket launchers and other heavy weaponry.
"The attackers approached the post in small groups from multiple directions but were detected via thermal imaging cameras. The security personnel swiftly responded with machine guns and mortar fire, compelling the assailants to flee," stated a Punjab Police official.
The security checkpoint has previously been targeted by militants on several occasions, including twice this week. There were also multiple attempts to seize the checkpoint last year.
"Punjab Police have successfully thwarted 19 similar assaults on border checkpoints thus far," remarked Usman Anwar, the Director General of Punjab Police.
"Our vigilant officers have ensured that these elements fail in their malicious intentions," he added.
In the wake of the attack, security alerts have been disseminated throughout the province, as well as in the federal capital.
