Mobile and Internet Services Suspended Across Pakistan for 9th Muharram Security
QUETTA: In line with strict security measures for the 9th of Muharram-ul-Haram, mobile and internet services were suspended in various parts of Pakistan on Saturday to ensure the safety of mourners and maintain public order during Ashura processions.
The sacred day, which commemorates the unparalleled sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions in Karbala, is being observed with profound respect and solemnity nationwide.
According to official sources, cellular and internet networks have been shut down in key cities including Quetta, Sukkur, Dadu, Jacobabad, Kohat, and others. The suspension is part of a broader security plan designed to prevent any potential untoward incidents during processions and gatherings.
Officials stated that the services will remain unavailable until 8:00 PM on Saturday, after which normal connectivity is expected to be restored.
Unprecedented Security Measures
To further strengthen security, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has directed the setup of a mobile control room in Islamabad — a first-of-its-kind arrangement for Ashura. The control room is fully functional without relying on public mobile networks, ensuring continuous monitoring and coordination even during the service blackout.
Law enforcement agencies have also increased patrolling and surveillance to safeguard participants in processions, while strict checks are in place at entry and exit points of major cities.
Related Security Operation in Lakki Marwat
In a separate but significant development, security forces, along with the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), conducted a joint intelligence-based operation in Lakki Marwat. Three suspected militants belonging to the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Tipu Group were killed in the operation.
CTD officials confirmed that the militants were identified as Wasim Ullah alias Umar Khattab, Qudrat Ullah alias Abu Bakr, and Hijrat Ullah alias Hijrat. The operation occurred in a remote village and involved a prolonged gun battle between the security forces and militants.
The successful operation has been hailed as another step towards maintaining peace during Muharram, a month that historically demands heightened security across Pakistan.
Public Cooperation Urged
Authorities have appealed to citizens for cooperation during the temporary suspension of mobile and internet services and urged them to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security personnel.
With the 10th of Muharram (Ashura) tomorrow, similar security measures and possible network suspensions may continue to ensure the peaceful observance of mourning rituals.
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