Barrister Gohar and Salman Akram Raja arrested amid PTI-police clashes in Rawalpindi

Bairastr Goher released, Salman Akram Raja remains in custody, sloganeering PTI workers forcefully remove containers

Violent clashes broke out between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters and Punjab Police near Committee Chowk, escalating tensions in the Rawalpindi.

PTI workers forcefully removed police-placed containers on Saturday while chanting slogans and marching towards Liaquat Bagh.

In response, police deployed heavy teargas shelling to disperse the crowd, leading to confrontations that spread along Murree Road. PTI supporters reportedly threw stones at officers, prompting authorities to call for additional reinforcements.

Amid the unrest, Punjab Police detained PTI Chairman Bairastr Gohar Ali Khan and leader Salman Akram Raja near the H-13 area while they were traveling to Rawalpindi, according to Express News.

Shortly after their detention, Bairastr Goher was released, whereas Salman Akram Raja remains in custody.

Gohar stated that both he and Raja were stopped at H-13 and instructed to return after a disagreement, preventing them from proceeding to Rawalpindi.

The use of tear gas resulted in canisters falling into nearby homes, causing distress among residents, including women and children. Media personnel covering the protests were also affected by the shelling.

Pedestrians navigating the area were caught in the tense situation as PTI workers from China Market, Rialto Chowk, and Committee Chowk gathered on Murree Road.

Despite police efforts, workers continued to congregate at Committee Chowk, Mareer Chowk, and China Market, forcing some officers to retreat and leading to the arrest of several protesters.

 The Rawalpindi administration had earlier sealed off key locations, blocked entry points, and deployed thousands of police officers throughout the city.

Section 144 has been imposed from September 28 to 29, banning gatherings, political rallies, and the display of weapons.

In preparation for the planned protests at Liaquat Bagh, officials have placed containers to block major routes, conducted raids, and performed door-to-door searches to detain PTI leaders and active supporters.

Educational institutions, government offices, and hotels in affected areas have been closed, and ambulance access to Murree Road and nearby hospitals has been restricted to prevent disruptions.