Security forces in Pakistan have been put on high alert after intelligence agencies warned of attacks by Al Qaeda and Taliban militants on embassies, consulates and citizens of US and UK.

Al Qaeda and the Taliban are planning suicide and rocket attacks on the embassies, consulates, NGOs, firms and citizens of the US and UK in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, intelligence agencies warned in reports submitted to the Interior Ministry.

The Interior Ministry had directed the Home Secretaries and Inspectors General of Police of these provinces and the Islamabad Chief Commissioner to enhance the security for the suspected Al-Qaeda and Taliban targets.

They have been directed to ensure regular searches of areas housing the US and UK installations and monitor madrassas, hotels and guesthouses, the Daily Times said, quoting intelligence sources.

The Islamabad administration has been directed to ensure daily patrolling of the Diplomatic Enclave besides deployment of extra police force in areas housing diplomats, missions and foreign NGOs, firms and citizens.