ISLAMABAD: As general elections are being held on February 8, the capital police on Sunday conducted search and combing operations in different part of the city.

On the other hand, District Returning Officer (DRO) Irfan Nawaz Memon visited different polling stations in NA-47 and NA-48.

The DRO also viewed security and directed the officials concerned to further improve the arrangements.

According to a statement, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) conducted a search and combing operation at Shahzad Town police station jurisdiction and others areas.

Following the directives of Islamabad Capital City Police Officer (ICCPO) Dr Akbar Nasir Khan, search and combing operations were being conducted in different areas of the city to ensure safety and security of the citizens.

During the search and combing operations, 27 houses, 17 motorcycles and nine vehicles were checked while police teams shifted seven suspected persons, three motorcycles, drugs and illegal arms and ammunition to the police stations for verification.

The ICCPO said the purpose of the search and combing operations was to heighten the security in the federal capital.

“All zonal officers are directed to continue these operations in their respective areas. Citizens are also requested to cooperate with police during the checking,” he said.

Similarly, police conducted a grand operation against encroachment and double parking in rural areas including Lehtrar Road, Tramari Chowk, Alipur, Sultana Foundation, Khanna Pul, Bhara Kahu and surrounding areas.

“Islamabad Capital Police have formed a special squad comprising officers and officials which is conducting uninterrupted operations on major roads and markets at various times, issuing tickets and impounding vehicles in different police stations for legal action,” he said.

During the operation, encroachments were removed; vehicles parked on roads shifted to designated parking areas using forklifts and owners were warned to avoid parking vehicles on footpaths and roads otherwise strict legal action will be taken.

“Further improvement will be made in this campaign to ensure the safety of citizens’ lives and property and to prevent accidents and the campaign will be expanded to other areas of Islamabad so that traffic flow can be maintained and unlawful incursions and parking violations can be eliminated,” he said.

To find your constituency and location of your polling booth, SMS your NIC number (no spaces) to 8300. Once you know your constituency, visit the ECP website here for candidates.

Published in Dawn, February 5th, 2024