Ahead of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party’s rally in Islamabad, law enforcement agencies have intensified efforts to quell any potential unrest by launching a widespread crackdown in Lahore. This includes a targeted operation to arrest party activists in various areas of the city.
According to police sources, Shahdara and other sensitive areas have been closely monitored, with containers likely to be placed at key entry and exit points to control movement. Special police squads are being deployed to oversee routes to Islamabad, and coordination has been established between Islamabad and the Punjab districts to monitor the situation closely.
Also Read: Government Begins Crackdown on PTI, Forms Arrest Teams
As part of the crackdown, the police have conducted raids on PTI-linked homes, offices, and outhouses, arresting over 500 activists from various locations, including Millat Park, Hanjarwal, Mansoora, Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate, and Green Town. The raids also extended to areas such as Shahdara Town, Badami Bagh, and Tajpura, with police acting on lists of individuals suspected of involvement in activities that could disrupt law and order.
Additionally, Section 144 has been imposed in Punjab from November 23 to 25, prohibiting all protests, rallies, sit-ins, and gatherings. The ban, implemented through an official notification, aims to prevent public disturbances and ensure safety in the province. The decision is particularly aimed at controlling any public unrest during the PTI rally, which has sparked concerns of possible violence or large-scale protests.
This heightened security measure reflects the government’s concern over maintaining order amid the growing tension surrounding PTI’s planned march to Islamabad. The authorities have emphasized that the crackdown and Section 144 are precautionary measures aimed at maintaining public safety.
