The Muharram majaalis and other important events culminating in Ashura have come to an end mercifully without any untoward incident through out the country. During these days there were literally hundreds of small and large gatherings and processions every day, and numerous processions in each city meandering for hours at snail's pace through the narrow and dark streets providing ideal opportunities for the terrorists to strike. Hats off to police, FC, Rangers and other security agencies that nothing of the feared and dreaded suicide bombing or blast of any other kind took place. The NWFP police, more specifically the Peshawar police and security agencies deserve a special mention for making excellent fool-proof security arrangements with no undue hassle or inconvenience for the people participating in the mourning. Well done guys You all rose to the occasion. -COL (Retd) RIAZ JAFRI, Rawalpindi, via e-mail, January 8.