Section 144 imposed ahead of PTI protest

In preparation for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for today (Saturday), the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in several cities, including Lahore.

In response, law enforcement agencies have implemented stringent security measures to ensure peace and prevent any disruption of public order.

The imposition of Section 144, which bans public gatherings, political assemblies, and demonstrations, is aimed at maintaining public safety and safeguarding property.

The restrictions are set to remain in place in Lahore from October 3 to October 8, while in other cities, including Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha, they will be in effect until October 6.

Lahore DIG Operations Muhammad Faisal Kamran emphasised strict enforcement of Section 144, warning that any attempts to disrupt public peace would not be tolerated.

Addressing a meeting with senior police officials at Police Lines, Qila Gujjar Singh, DIG Kamran said that police teams have been mobilized to monitor sensitive areas across the city.

"The Anti-Riot Force will be deployed instead of armed police squads, with prisoner vans and extra personnel stationed at key locations," said DIG Kamran.

Sensitive areas, including hospitals, schools, commercial centres, and public places, will be closely monitored to prevent unrest.

Additionally, Lahore police have sealed entry and exit points, using shipping containers to block potential protesters from entering the city. Police claim to have arrested dozens of PTI activists as part of an ongoing crackdown on those involved in previous violent incidents, including the May 9 riots.

To strengthen security efforts, the Punjab government has called in the Rangers, deploying three companies in Lahore and four companies each in Rawalpindi and Attock.