LAHORE: As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepares for its planned rally in Islamabad, law enforcement agencies have launched a large-scale crackdown in Lahore, resulting in the arrest of over 500 party activists.
According to police sources, Shahdara’s entry and exit points have been declared sensitive, and containers may be placed in the area to control movement in case of a protest or march towards Islamabad.
Special police squads have been deployed at key routes, and coordination between Islamabad and Punjab districts has been completed to monitor and curb potential unrest.
The police have conducted raids on homes, offices, and outhouses linked to PTI supporters across various areas of Lahore, including Millat Park, Hanjarwal, Mansoora, Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate, and Green Town. Additional raids were carried out in Shahdara Town, Badami Bagh, and Tajpura.
The arrests are reportedly based on lists of individuals suspected of involvement in activities that could disrupt law and order.
From the Iqbal Town division alone, 65 individuals were detained for concerns related to law and order disturbances. Additionally, 14 arrests were made last night from Green Town and Township.
In preparation for the PTI rally, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province from November 23 to 25, prohibiting all protests, rallies, gatherings, and sit-ins. The official notification cited the need to maintain law and order and prevent disturbances during this period. This precautionary measure is aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens and protecting public property.
