Lahore police reportedly intercepted a major consignment of alcohol meant to be distributed on New Year’s Eve.
The raid took place in the parking lot of Model Town Caddery, following a tip-off, Express News reported.
The police, led by Naseerabad authorities, discovered a total of 140 liquor bottles belonging to a person named Ashraf, who was present at the spot.
After being questioned, Ashraf admitted to having taken the alcohol to distribute it at various locations, to supply it to people celebrating New Year’s Eve. A case has been registered and investigation is underway.
Meanwhile, Additional IG Traffic Punjab issued special directives regarding traffic management for New Year’s Eve celebrations, ensuring that only limited number of vehicles are allowed on major roads.
Additional traffic personnel will be deployed on key roads to manage the large influx of vehicles during the event.
On the other hand, Karachi police have issued a stern warning to citizens about the dangers of celebratory shooting on New Year’s Eve, stating that cases of attempt to murder will be filed against violators.
Advertisements in the city’s mosques urge people to avoid aerial gunfire, and strict measures have been put in place to enforce the ban.
Sindh Inspector General of Police Ghulam Nabi Memon stressed on increased patrolling, picketing and quick checks on roads and public places.
The police have also implemented a new initiative in the Western Zone to collect licensed weapons from citizens, with the aim of preventing celebratory shootings.
In response to the current problem, Karachi West Zone has already collected hundreds of weapons, including pistols, shotguns and rifles.
Police are determined to reduce the number of injuries and deaths that normally result from celebratory shootings.
To ensure safety, security measures have been finalized for the night, including the deployment of 1,431 police officers to Sea View and additional officers to churches and other locations.
As part of the security plan, Section 144 has been applied, which prohibits the use of firearms, aerial shots and fireworks.
Karachi Traffic Police has also announced road closures in certain areas and advised residents of Defense Housing Authority (DHA) to use alternative routes.