Pakistan: Suspension of mobile phone and internet services October 30

Event

Mobile phone services and internet services were shut off on Tuesday, October 30, by the authorities in certain cities in Punjab, including Lahore, in Sindh, including Karachi, and Hyderabad, as well as in certain locations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Baluchistan provinces. The national capital Islamabad is unaffected.

The cuts are due to the annual Shi'a Muslim religious celebration of Arba’een and have been implemented to address related security concerns. Communications are expected to be restored following the conclusion of local processions taking place on Tuesday. Additional security forces have been deployed to secure the gatherings.

Context

The threat of terrorism and violence against Shi'a worshippers from Sunni extremist groups, including the Islamic State (IS), is considered higher during Arba’een.

Arba’een falls 40 days after Ashura, ending a period of mourning commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, Prophet Muhammad’s grandson.

Advice

Individuals in affected locations should plan alternative means of communication. Avoid all gatherings related to Arba’een due to the heightened risk of attacks.