Islamabad at high alert a day before Independence Day celebrations
Islamabad, Pakistan: Security in Rawalpindi and Islamabad is at High alert level and communication services including mobile phone services are erratic since early morning.
The possible reason for High Alert is visit of Iranian Foreign Minister to Islamabad and rehearsal of August 14 ceremony.
Mobile phone “Service Not Available” for around 20 Km radius of Rawalpindi-Islamabad area while service is available in rest of the country.
“Services have not been suspended but put on erratic mode for communication for security reasons”, said a source in Islamabad on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to media.
“Short Message Service (SMS) shall remain erratic on August 14 also and this is normal procedure”, said an executive of Mobile Phone Company.
“August 14, 2015 is quite sensitive day for security agencies of Pakistan because enemies of Pakistan are trying their best to disrupt peace in country and are planning something big in Rawalpindi Islamabad, said a source in intelligence networking.
“International telephone connectivity shall also under special surveillance during August 13 and 14 and Pakistan may face suspension of services to gulf countries and Afghanistan”, said another source.
One security report sent to concerned authorities indicate:
“Tight security around vital installations, including government buildings, police and military facilities, major hotels, markets, and transport hubs. Suspension of cellular phone services in major cities around Aug. 14 possible due to possibilities that militants may use the phones to coordinate attacks or trigger remote-controlled bombs. Given its symbolic significance, Independence Day offers an ideal time for militants to strike; attacks in the form of suicide bombings and/or assassination attempts targeting prominent political figures, among others, are possible around the national holiday. Tight security at minority religious sites. Special instructions to diplomats to stay at home unless deem necessary during August 13 and 14.
