PESHAWAR — Fearing terror activities , security has been placed on high alert in Peshawar, with authorities ordering the evacuation of several key government buildings amid heightened security concerns, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi is scheduled to address an important press conference this afternoon.
According to sources, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Civil Secretariat was evacuated on security grounds, and government employees were directed to leave the premises.The Directorate of Excise and Taxation on Shami Road, Peshawar, was also evacuated, sources said.Similarly, the building of the former FATA Secretariat on Warsak Road was vacated.The premises currently accommodate staff of several departments, including Information, Livestock and Health.
Sources further said that entry into Peshawar Police Lines has also been restricted as part of enhanced security measures.
Meanwhile, according media sources Chief Minister Sohail Afridi is scheduled to hold an important press conference at 3:00pm today.He is expected to be accompanied by members of the provincial cabinet and the party’s parliamentarians.
Sources said that an important announcement regarding the proposed long march is expected during the press conference, although the details of the announcement have not yet been disclosed.The heightened security measures and the Chief Minister’s scheduled media briefing come amid increased political and security activity in the provincial capital.Further developments are awaited.
In a related development , CM Sohail Khan Afridi reached the Civil Secretariat and offered Juma prayers at the Secretariat Mosque along with Chief Secretary KP, sending a clear message of resolve against terrorism amid heightened security concerns.Following Friday prayers, the Chief Minister held a detailed briefing at the Chief Secretary’s Office on the overall security situation in the province.He reviewed the prevailing security environment and issued necessary directions to the concerned authorities for further strengthening security and ensuring the protection of citizens and government installations.
The Chief Minister’s decision to offer Friday prayers at the Civil Secretariat Mosque assumes particular significance in the wake of a security threat reportedly warning of possible attacks on government installations, particularly major mosques, today.His presence at the Secretariat Mosque was seen as a symbolic expression of the government’s determination not to allow threats of terrorism to create fear and panic among the people.Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Khan Afridi said terrorists could not intimidate the government or the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Terrorists cannot frighten us. The people and government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will never bow before terrorism, he said.The Chief Minister reaffirmed that the provincial government would confront terrorism with full force on every front and would take all necessary measures to safeguard the lives and property of the people.
He categorically stated that no compromise would be made on the protection and security of the people, directing the relevant authorities to remain vigilant and ensure effective security arrangements across the province.