Red Alert in Islamabad in wake of FATA operation

Islamabad, Jun 29: Pakistan capital Islamabad was placed on a state of red alert from Saturday, June 28 in the wake of the launch of a paramilitary operation in the country's FATA region. According to local dailies, the government has increased security around foreign embassies and the offices of international donor agencies in the federal capital.

Interior Ministry sources told the sources that fresh instructions have been issued to all departments concerned to make foolproof security arrangements around important government buildings, especially foreign embassies and missions situated in and outside the diplomatic enclave. "Security has already been enhanced in the capital but we have issued fresh instructions to all the departments concerned to remain extra vigilant in the wake of the operation in the NWFP," a senior Interior Ministry official was quoted, as saying.

Security agencies fear that militants might target foreign missions in Islamabad. A senior official said the Interior Ministry has advised foreigners working in Pakistan to be extra careful and avoid unnecessary appearances at public places.

Higher authorities have also asked police to lessen the 'stoppage time' at traffic signals and keep traffic moving in the twin cities, particularly in the morning when government personnel are transported to their respective duty points in official vans.

Authorities believe that a military operation in the Tribal Areas could trigger a new wave of terrorism in the country, with European installations as prime targets.

The government is already working on a plan to move all foreign embassies within the premises of the diplomatic enclave for enhanced security.

ANI