LAHORE – The religious party TLP (Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan) is facing a major crackdown after violent clashes with Punjab police and law enforcement agencies. Authorities have targeted the party’s leaders and activists following unrest in Muridke, in what officials describe as a state effort to curb the hardline group.
According to officials, the crackdown comes after high-level meetings reviewing TLP’s record of violent protests, attacks on police, and assaults on minority communities. The party now faces 72 registered criminal cases across Punjab, including 39 in Lahore. Several senior, mid-level, and lower-tier leaders have already been detained.
Provincial authorities stressed that TLP must be restricted to political activities, ending its ability to pressure the state through unlawful assemblies. Officials believe this is a final opportunity to rein in the party, which has allegedly incited violence in the name of religion and repeatedly threatened public order.
During operations to disperse encamped protesters in Muridke, over 2,500 TLP activists were detained across the region. Authorities also detained 25 members and registered more than 300 FIRs under terrorism charges within 24 hours. In Dera Ghazi Khan, a group of TLP men reportedly stormed the “Bait Cheen Wala” riverine police post near Jhoke Utra before fleeing, prompting police to register cases against them.
Meanwhile, TLP chief Saad Rizvi remains at large after reportedly escaping during the Muridke operation. Lahore DIG Faisal Kamran confirmed that authorities have traced Rizvi’s location and his arrest is imminent.
In addition, a money laundering investigation has been launched against Rizvi following the seizure of large sums of cash during a raid on his Lahore residence. Authorities say these measures aim to prevent further unrest and ensure that TLP’s activities remain within legal and political boundaries.
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The crackdown signals a strong message from the provincial administration to contain violent elements and uphold law and order across Punjab.
