Punjab Police Crackdown: Hundreds of PTI Workers Arrested Amid Rising Political Tensions

The Punjab Police have apprehended hundreds of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters across Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and other cities, as the federal government contemplates transferring security duties for Islamabad’s Red Zone to the Rangers.

In Rawalpindi alone, more than 170 PTI activists were arrested following protests, arson, and vandalism that occurred in Liaquat Bagh on September 28, raising the total number of arrests in the city to over 300. Police officials stated that they are currently identifying suspects through social media videos and footage from Safe City surveillance cameras.

In Lahore, police detained 84 PTI workers, many of whom were already wanted in connection with violent incidents from May 9 and September 21. These arrests were prompted by concerns about potential disruptions in areas such as Kahna, Nishtar Colony, Ghalib Market, and Gulberg.

Lahore police have reiterated that Section 144 remains in effect and emphasized that strict measures will be taken against those who violate it.

Additionally, in Faisalabad, PTI supporters were arrested for breaching Section 144, leading to five cases against 116 individuals. However, none of the nine arrested Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) were named in these cases, including protest leader Hammad Azhar, despite reports of violence against police during the protests.

In connection with the protests organized by PTI Founder Imran Khan on October 2 in Mianwali, 47 PTI workers have been charged under various laws, including the Anti-Terrorism Act, with 22 identified and 25 unidentified. According to the First Information Report (FIR), police issued multiple warnings before intervening, at which point protesters allegedly began throwing stones. Authorities used tear gas to disperse the crowd as they sought to clear the business area around Committee Chowk.

In light of increased political unrest, the federal government is considering deploying Rangers to secure the Red Zone in Islamabad due to the arrival of foreign dignitaries for the upcoming SCO Conference. Reports suggest that Rangers will be positioned near significant government buildings and at key access points to the Red Zone until the event concludes.

Amid rising political tensions, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has pledged to lead a protest at D-Chowk on October 4. In a video statement, he accused the federal government of obstructing PTI’s protest efforts, labeling the actions as “fascism” and reaffirmed his determination to reach D-Chowk regardless of any challenges.

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