JITs in a fix over elected POs

Several proclaimed offenders in May 9 cases set to take assembly seats

LAHORE:

Several proclaimed offenders (POs) implicated in the May 9 violence cases have secured seats in both national and provincial assemblies during the recent General Elections 2024.

Among the notable figures are Mian Aslam Iqbal, Ali Amin Gandapur and Imtiaz Sheikh, raising concerns over the administration’s ability to apprehend these accused.

Despite extensive efforts by Joint Investigations Teams (JITs) to capture the suspects, they have been evading arrest.

Notably, Gandapur has even been nominated as a candidate for the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), where PTI-backed independent candidates have secured a significant number of seats.

Furthermore, a considerable number of activists involved in the alleged violent attacks on sensitive defence installations during the May 9 incident were observed actively participating in elections campaigns.

Reportedly, JIT members are reconvening to devise a renewed strategy to apprehend the POs.

Since the May 9 incident, whenever PTI initiates significant political campaigns, there is a noticeable surge in crackdowns under the guise of apprehending May 9 suspects.

JITs tasked with investigating the May 9 cases have reinvigorated their efforts, coinciding with the political activities following the success of PTI-backed independent candidates in the elections.

Meanwhile, in anticipation of the upcoming PSL-9th season, Lahore Police has formulated a comprehensive security plan. DIG Operations Lahore, Syed Ali Nasir, revealed that over 7,000 law enforcement personnel will be deployed to ensure the security of PSL matches.

This deployment includes 13 Superintendents of Police (SPs), 36 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), 81 Station House Officers (SHOs)/Inspectors, 617 upper subordinates, and 103 lady constables. Additionally, 27 teams of the Elite Force, 60 teams of the Dolphin Squad, and 52 teams of the Police Response Unit (PRU) will be actively patrolling the area. The Punjab Safe City Authority (PSCA) cameras will play a crucial role in monitoring activities during the matches.

Stringent security measures will be implemented, including checkpoints from the airport to the hotel. Citizens will undergo thorough checks at four points before entering the stadium.

Rizvi, during a briefing session at Gulberg police station, emphasized the importance of these security measures in ensuring a safe and successful PSL-9th season.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 15^th 2024.