As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepares for its rally in Islamabad, law enforcement agencies have launched an extensive crackdown in Lahore, targeting party activists.
Police sources report that entry and exit points in Shahdara have been identified as sensitive areas, with plans to use containers to restrict movement if protests or marches towards Islamabad occur. Special police squads have been stationed along key routes, and coordination between Islamabad and Punjab districts has been finalized to address potential unrest.
In Lahore, police have conducted raids on residences, offices, and outhouses linked to PTI supporters, resulting in the arrest of over 500 activists from areas like Millat Park, Hanjarwal, Mansoora, Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate, and Green Town. Additional arrests have been made in Shahdara Town, Badami Bagh, and Tajpura.
These arrests are reportedly based on lists of individuals suspected of engaging in activities that could disrupt public order. For example, 65 people from Iqbal Town division and 14 from Green Town and Township were detained on concerns of law and order violations.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has imposed a three-day ban on protests, rallies, and public gatherings across the province under Section 144, effective from November 23 to 25. This move, announced through an official notification, is intended to prevent unrest and safeguard public safety and property amid rising tensions.
