Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar says former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister Sohail Afridi remains in protective police custody. He maintains that authorities have not formally arrested Afridi.
The statement comes amid rising political tensions between the federal government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Meanwhile, disputes over security measures and the province’s political future continue to deepen the confrontation.
Tarar Clarifies Afridi’s Custody
Speaking on a television programme, Tarar said police had placed Afridi in protective custody. His remarks followed PTI claims that authorities had detained Afridi and several senior party leaders.
Reports also named PTI provincial president Junaid Akbar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Speaker Babar Saleem Swati among those taken into preventive custody.
Furthermore, the detentions followed federal action in the province. Government officials defended their measures by citing security concerns and the provincial administration’s response to militant violence.
Federal Minister Raises Security Allegations
Tarar criticised the previous provincial administration over its handling of terrorism. He also alleged that some individuals maintained links with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
In addition, the minister accused Afridi of discussing militants and their associates. He argued that such activities could threaten public safety. However, authorities have not independently established these allegations.
Tarar also claimed that PTI supporters planned to damage the Governor House during protests. He criticised the alleged plan and questioned the party’s approach to political demonstrations.
PTI Challenges Government Measures
PTI leaders have opposed the federal government’s actions and questioned the legality of its emergency measures. The party argues that authorities are targeting its leadership and attempting to weaken its political position.
Meanwhile, the confrontation has affected PTI’s plans for a long march towards Islamabad. Security personnel have increased deployments in Peshawar, while authorities have placed containers on several roads.
Consequently, the dispute has added pressure to an already tense political situation. The status of Afridi’s custody and the province’s administrative future remain key points of contention.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
