In response to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)’s call for protests, Lahore police have arrested over 350 supporters and activists in a crackdown aimed at maintaining order. The arrests target individuals suspected of inciting public unrest, with authorities issuing a list of more than 1,600 active PTI members believed to be involved in facilitating these protests.
The detained activists were taken into custody across various cities, including Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi, for their alleged roles in encouraging citizens to protest. Police operations occurred in localities such as Iqbal Town, Johar Town, and Defence, among others.
Also Read: Roads in Rawalpindi Closed Ahead of PTI Protest After Friday Prayers
Special teams have been formed to respond robustly to the situation, and police officials stated they are seeking detention orders for individuals deemed a threat to public peace. Preparations for the nationwide protests, scheduled to follow Friday prayers, have led to increased surveillance and enforcement measures to deter any disturbances.
Despite the arrests, the PTI has reiterated its commitment to mobilizing supporters and continuing its political activities across the country. Earlier today, multiple roads in Rawalpindi were blocked following the PTI’s call for nationwide protests after Friday prayers. Key roads, including Peshawar Road near Cheering Cross and NAL Road near the Military Hospital, were barricaded, allowing only limited traffic flow.
Police have established zig-zag pickets at entry points into Rawalpindi, with additional personnel deployed. Roads leading to Murree Road’s Marrir Chowk and Liaquat Bagh have also been sealed off, while Swann Bridge is allowing single-lane traffic.
In the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, metro bus service remains suspended for the fifth consecutive day. Initially halted from October 14-16 due to security measures surrounding the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, the service has not resumed even after the summit’s conclusion.
Yesterday, the Punjab government enforced Section 144 across the province, prohibiting all forms of protests, rallies, and public gatherings from October 18 to October 19. This decision was made in light of the prevailing law and order situation and perceived threats, as the Home Department warned that protests could become soft targets for terrorists.
The government’s actions come a day after the PTI announced plans for a nationwide protest at the district level, urging supporters to gather on October 18 to demonstrate against constitutional amendments and the imprisonment of the party’s founding chairman, Imran Khan.
