The intensified security checks at cinema theatres, shopping malls and other crowded places in the twin cities coupled with false rumors about “bomb attacks” put the denizens on tenterhooks these days.
In a bid to infuse confidence among the people, especially in the wake of the recent twin blasts at Dilsukhnagar, Director-General of Police V. Dinesh Reddy has appealed to the citizens not be carried away by rumors being spread by mischief-mongers.
Speaking to the media this morning, the DGP said the police have been taking all precautionary measures for the safety and protection of the people. At the same time, he also wanted the people to remain alert and cooperate with the police during searching and frisking operations launched by the police and security personnel in crowded areas.
Dinesh Reddy pointed out that following fresh alert from the Intelligence Bureau about possible terrorist attack again, especially during the Mahasivaratri festival, the police have intensified searches and frisking of two-wheelers, three-wheelers and autos in crowded places like cinema theatres, shopping malls and other busy areas all over the State. Besides intensified searches in these places, the police have also beefed up security arrangements at various Shiva temples all over the State where large number of devotees are expected to congregate in view of the ensuing Sivaratri festival.
The DGP also made it amply clear to film producers and directors that prior police permission was mandatory for organizing any audio-release functions to be held in function halls. Apart from obtaining prior permission from the concerned police authorities, the organizers of such audio-release functions should also make their own security arrangements besides the police bandobust.
Replying to questions, the DGP said the police were aware of the presence of the sleeper cells of the terrorist outfit Indian Mujahideen and necessary measures are being taken to flush them out.
Even as the DGP was detailing about the security arrangements being taken by the police for the safety and protection of the people, panic spread in Secunderabad over rumors about bomb blast in the crowded and popular Alpha Hotel near the Secunderabad Railway Station. The police rushed to the spot and made a thorough check and ultimately found that it was a false alarm. Similarly the police were sent in a wild goose chase on receipt of information that bombs were planted near the bus stop and cinema theatre in Shamshabad. After a thorough check up by the police, who pressed into service sniffer dogs and mob squad, it again turned out to be a false alarm.
The security personnel, including those from the Octopus intensified searches in and around the State capital, especially in public places and tourist spots. Vigorous searches were made in Shilparamam and nearby tourist spots. During the checking operations in shopping malls in the twin cities, the police found that the Big Bazar at Abids had failed to take the required security measures and hence forced its closure.
Meanwhile, the Cooption police have thoroughly inspected the Secretariat and other vulnerable areas in the twin cities, including the Osmania General Hospsital. (NSS)