Malik Ahmad Bhachar, the opposition leader in the Punjab Assembly, has reaffirmed his commitment to attending the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally in Swabi, stating that no obstacles will prevent their participation. He plans to travel to Swabi in a convoy from Mianwali and assured that PTI’s Lahore leadership will be on the ground by 1 PM today.
PTI Lahore President Sheikh Imtiaz reported that some party members have already arrived in Swabi, while others are preparing to depart for the rally.
In response to the PTI rally, the Punjab government has taken significant security measures. Police forces in Rawalpindi and Attock have been placed on high alert to manage potential emergencies during the event.
The Central Police Office in Lahore has deployed 1,500 police officers from four districts, including District Police Officers (DPOs), the Punjab Constabulary, and Highway Patrolling Police, all under the command of the Regional Police Officer (RPO) of Rawalpindi.
A directive has been issued ensuring that these officers remain available to the RPO. DPOs from Attock, Chakwal, Gujrat, and Mandi Bahauddin have been ordered to send 200 personnel each to Rawalpindi. Additionally, 500 personnel from the Punjab Constabulary and 200 from the Punjab Highway Patrolling have been instructed to report to Rawalpindi and Attock for duty.
All police personnel will operate under the authority of the RPO Rawalpindi, who will oversee the deployment of forces. In preparation for potential disruptions, all units have been equipped with anti-riot gear, including tear gas shells. The Central Police Office in Rawalpindi and DPO Attock will also be responsible for managing logistics, including fuel, transportation, food, and accommodation for the deployed officers.
