Geofencing
ISLAMABAD: As the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) gears up for a “do-or-die” protest on November 24, the Ministry of Interior has initiated geofencing of Afghan refugee camps in Islamabad and other cities.
According to sources, the measure aims to monitor and prevent any potential misuse of these areas during the demonstrations.
Authorities are considering further actions, including the cancellation of passports and identity cards, and blocking SIM cards of individuals deemed to be miscreants involved in the protest.
Additionally, proposals to revoke academic certificates and admissions for students participating in violent protests are also under review.
Surveillance of suspicious locations has been heightened to address potential terrorist threats, with security agencies directed to remain on high alert.
The ministry has also devised strict measures to secure public buildings in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A significant deployment of security personnel is planned, with 9,000 Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC) personnel, equipped with anti-riot kits, sought by the Islamabad Police Inspector General.
This includes 5,000 Rangers and 4,000 FC personnel requested through official correspondence. Section 144, banning gatherings of more than five people, has already been imposed in the federal capital for two months.
PTI, led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has framed the protest as a final call against alleged rigging in the February 8 elections, arrests of party workers, and the passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment.
The party has mobilized its leadership and workers for the nationwide demonstrations, with approximately 10,000 supporters already present in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and nearby areas.
PTI workers have been instructed to stay at undisclosed locations, with strategic routes mapped for their entry into Islamabad. Selected workers from the Hazara Division will approach the capital via Haripur and Murree, while others from southern districts will use Fateh Jang and alternative routes.
Party leaders have emphasized their readiness to overcome any obstacles, warning the government against erecting barriers.
Despite previous crackdowns, PTI remains confident of assembling a massive crowd in Islamabad.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif highlighted that past efforts to block PTI supporters were unsuccessful and expressed confidence in the public’s ability to bypass any hurdles.
He described the government’s use of shipping containers as futile against the passionate resolve of PTI’s supporters.
With tensions escalating, the November 24 protest is expected to be a significant showdown between the PTI and the ruling coalition, reflecting the deepening political divide in the country.
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