Several suspects arrested during raids in Karachi

KARACHI: Security forces are continuing the search and clearance operation in several areas of the metropolis and several suspects have been arrested during such raids, Geo News reported Friday.

According to sources, the security forces are conducting raids in several areas after getting crucial information regarding the terror attacks in the city during the holy month of Muharram. The information has been provided by the intelligence agencies and interior ministry, sources told.

Acting on a tip off, Rangers and police raided Federal B Area, Gulberg, Gurumandir, Patel Para and Baloch Para and arrested several suspected persons.

Snap checking was also reported in several areas.

Earlier citing security reasons, the government not only banned riding motorcycles but also decided to suspend cellular services in Karachi and Quetta today.

Interior Minister Rehman Malik had announced that motorbikes would not be allowed to come on the roads from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM and gave no exemption after receiving an information that motorcycles would be used in terrorist attacks at public places.

Malik said that the mobile phone services would also remain suspended in both the cities from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Moreover, markets in the said cities have also been directed to conduct business only from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Friday.

Rejecting this outrageous ban, different trade bodies raised voice against it, urging relaxation as businesses were already down in the dumps.

Chief Justice Sindh High Court, however, has dismissed Interior Minister Rehman Malik's orders regarding the ban on motorcycle riding in Karachi, issuing notices to IG Sindh, Home Secretary and Advocate General Sindh. He has also ordered them to appear before the court on Friday morning.