Security personnel reluctant to guard "prime target" Musharraf out of Presidency

Islamabad, Aug 16 : Once President Pervez Musharraf is off the political scene in Islamabad, by either resigning or being impeached by the federal government, he might be the prime target of Islamic militants and his security personnel would have to take a high-risk job of protecting him without the paraphernalia available right now like satellite security system, advanced jamming system against remote control explosives and bullet proof jackets.

Several militant organisations have been baying for Musharraf's blood alleging that he played into the US' hands by allowing US-led coalition forces to launch attacks on militants operating from Pakistan's soil.

According to the security bosses presently guarding Musharraf, Musharraf would become a "potential high risk" after coming out of the fortified Presidential Palace and the security chaps are expressing their inability to provide him protection in that eventuality, reported The News.

Those expected to be entrusted his security are being advised by their near and dear ones to refuse to take such a responsibility, added the paper.

According to it, Musharraf will not be entitled to military protection once he relinquished the post of the President. In the absence of advanced jamming system against remote control explosives and non-availability of bulletproof shielding would make him more vulnerable to any attempt (on his life). The satellite security system will also not be available to him to provide him advance information about any untoward movement on his route of travelling, warned the paper further.

The security of former presidents is vested in police and its special branch and elements after Pervez Musharraf could easily dodge the police arrangements. President Musharraf is working on two options with regard to his imminent resignation. He could submit to the speaker National Assembly either a one line resignation or a point by point response to the charge-sheet to be unfolded by the government any time from now.

ANI