Factories told to follow Chinese nationals’ security SOPs after CTD report

LAHORE: The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has pointed out several serious security lapses concerning Chinese nationals working in Sheikhupura district. According to a CTD report dated September 18, 2025, the lapses were flagged in a “Security Audit of Projects Where Chinese Nationals Work or Visit” (1494/DO/CTD/SKP), prepared by the Sheikhupura CTD district officer and sent to the deputy commissioner. Copies of the report were also shared with senior Punjab government officials, including the Lahore commissioner, for immediate action.

The report expressed concern that despite clear government instructions, security clearance of the staff employed at these facilities had not been carried out properly. It further highlighted that some factories and projects lacked emergency exits, while mud piles outside the government’s thermal power plant could be misused for surveillance or ambush purposes.

The report also pointed out that many of the sites did not have CCTV cameras, walk-through gates, or watchtowers. In several cases, security arrangements for foreign—particularly Chinese—skilled workers were found inadequate. Moreover, the number of police personnel deputed for security was lower than required. Following the CTD’s findings, the local administration issued instructions to the owners of private projects and factories to immediately address all security shortcomings and ensure full compliance with prescribed SOPs.