Islamabad police arrested several Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activists, including Imran Khan’s sisters, Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan, as they attempted to reach D-Chowk for a planned protest. The two sisters, along with dozens of PTI supporters, were taken into custody during the demonstration. Police moved them to the secretariat police station.
The protest quickly escalated when PTI workers clashed with the police. The law enforcement used tear gas to disperse the crowd, but the demonstrators retaliated by throwing stones. A heavy police presence remains at D-Chowk and surrounding areas as tensions continue to rise.
Inspector General of Islamabad, Ali Nasir Rizvi, has instructed his officers to stay on high alert. “The next one hour is very crucial,” said IG Rizvi, signaling the potential for further unrest as the protest unfolds.
“Shameful actions,” says Gandapur
Meanwhile, Ali Amin Gandapur, a senior PTI leader and Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, vowed to reach D-Chowk “at any cost.” Leading a caravan from the province to the federal capital, Gandapur condemned the arrests of Imran Khan’s sisters and criticized the government for what he called “shameful” actions. He also accused the police of targeting “peaceful” PTI workers with tear gas and live fire. Several PTI supporters reportedly sustained injuries during the clashes.
In an effort to contain the protests, the internet and mobile services have been suspended in several parts of Pakistan, including Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The shutdown comes as part of the government’s response to the call for demonstrations at D-Chowk. The disruption of communication networks has raised concerns among the public, particularly in the twin cities.
The situation in Islamabad is part of a larger crackdown on PTI activities across the country. Earlier, the Punjab government invoked Section 144, banning political gatherings, protests, and rallies in four major cities: Lahore, Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha. In these cities, Rangers have been deployed to assist local police in maintaining law and order. The ban, which began on Friday, October 4, will remain in effect until Sunday, October 6.
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Security Measures
In Lahore, the provincial government specifically requested the deployment of three companies of Rangers to ensure security during the protest call on October 5. The government’s decision to involve Rangers highlights the growing concerns about potential unrest and the need for stronger enforcement.
As the protests continue, the situation remains tense in several parts of the country. PTI leadership, including Imran Khan’s allies, has criticized the government’s heavy-handed approach, while law enforcement maintains that these measures are necessary to prevent violence and chaos.
The arrests of prominent figures like Imran Khan’s sisters have further intensified the standoff between PTI supporters and the government. With communications suspended and a strong police presence, the coming hours could prove decisive in determining the outcome of this political confrontation.
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