LOC16:32
13:32 GMT
ISLAMABAD, June 27 (KUNA) -- One day after China demanded ensuring security
for its nationals and enhancing anti-terror measures, a massive show of
strength has been put around the Lal Mosque and its affiliate Madrassah for
female students who kidnapped nine Chinese workers for allegedly running a
brothel.
Reports are circulating in the heavily-guarded Pakistan's capital that an
operation is likely to be launched against the Mosque and its both male and
female vigilantes.
However, police sources told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) Wednesday that
no immediate operation "is in the offing."
Sources said security around the mosque had been tightened as part of the
step-wise program submitted to the President for approval to rein in the
growing character of Lal-Mosque vigilantes and also to send strong message to
the brigades that flouting law will have worse consequences.
Police were seen encircling the Mosque and the Madrassah and heavy
deployment made at all roads leading to the buildings.
Both male and female students of Lal Mosque last Friday after mid-night
raided a Chinese acupuncture clinic and abducted six Chinese female and three
male workers. Following hefty talks with the Chinese embassy, the
hostages were released a day later.
This was the third kidnapping bid by Madrassah students over the last few
months, embarrassing President Musharraf both at home and abroad.
Earlier, they had kidnapped two and then four policemen to put pressure on
the government to allow them free hand in enforcing the conservative
Taliban-style of Islam in the capital.
President Musharraf and his government have been verbally tough to their
activities but so far no action has been taken against them.(end)
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KUNA 271632 Jun 07NNNN