Lahore Police Detain PTI MPA Imtiaz Sheikh During Media Interaction

Police have arrested Imtiaz Sheikh, a Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in Lahore earlier today. The arrest occurred when Sheikh was addressing the media at Thokar Niaz Baig, where PTI workers and leaders were gathering to travel to Islamabad for a party rally.

A large police presence had been deployed in anticipation of PTI workers’ movement to Islamabad, resulting in additional arrests of party members besides Sheikh. Authorities stated that the arrests were made due to violations of Section 144, which was imposed to prevent large gatherings. Sheikh has been taken to a police station, though the specific location has not been disclosed.

Also Read: PTI Delays Islamabad Rally Amid Heightened Political Tensions

In response to the escalating situation, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan announced the postponement of the party’s planned public gathering in Islamabad. Party leader Azam Swati and Chairman Khan informed the media that the decision to delay the rally was made on the advice of PTI Founder Imran Khan.

The political climate has been tense, with the PTI’s rally plans clashing with the administration’s decision to revoke their event permit late last night. Security measures have been intensified in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with containers placed around the Red Zone to block roads and restricted access to the area. Only government employees are permitted entry, provided they show their office identification.