Unsubstantiated security alerts made rounds on social media on Wednesday about potential threats in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
Users shared the unverified alerts on WhatsApp, through SMS and on Facebook, raising concerns about another attack following Monday’s suicide attack which left 15 dead and injured more than 100 in Lahore.
The Islamabad alert cautioned against visiting Blue Area and F-11 Markaz, whereas the Lahore alert cautioned against visiting Main Market. The Lahore alert also mentioned that expected areas of the attack were the Mall of Lahore, surrounding cantonment, Fortress and DHA markets, while also stating that 10 to 12 terrorists were known to have entered the cantonment.
Karachi’s alleged ‘intel report’ was the most extensive, mentioning that a 2001 white Toyota Corolla and a white Suzuki van were carrying 80kgs and 120kgs of explosives respectively, and had entered the city. The information was allegedly obtained from a terrorist in custody. The apparent terrorist also stated that the Corolla would target Dolmen Mall and that the van would target a hotel.