Govt calls in big guns to deal with PTI

Rangers, FC to 'handle' law and order situation from Friday

ISLAMABAD / RAWALPINDI:

In a bid to keep a tight leash on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) November 24 "final push", the federal government on Wednesday called in the big guns, granting special powers to both Pakistan Rangers and Frontier Constabulary personnel in Islamabad.

In an all-hands-on-deck approach to stave off the potential influx of opposition supporters, the additional force will "handle" the law-and-order situation starting November 22 (Friday).

A notification from the interior ministry greenlighted the deployment of a "sufficient strength" of Pakistan Rangers (Punjab and Sindh) and FC troops in Islamabad from Friday onward, under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act.

It further stated that the exact number of personnel, as well as the date and area of their deployment, would be "worked out in consultation with concerned stakeholders."

Similarly, the date for de-requisitioning would be decided after mutual discussions with all relevant stakeholders. Bracing for a high-stakes showdown, Islamabad Police officially called for reinforcements from Punjab and Sindh police.

According to sources, as part of the arrangements, two DIGs and ten DPOs from the Punjab Police will be deployed in Islamabad, accompanied by 500 personnel each. In addition, 4,000 Rangers and 5,000 FC personnel will assist in maintaining law and order.

The Rangers, equipped with anti-riot kits, will play a key role in crowd control.

Furthermore, Punjab and Sindh constabularies have been asked to send 2,000 personnel each. FC and Punjab Police officers will also be deployed with anti-riot gear to ensure readiness for any untoward situation.

Key thoroughfares, including Ninth Avenue, and 72 entry and exit points of Islamabad will be sealed with barricades, officials confirmed. With Section 144 already in force, any violation will be dealt with strictly. Police officials disclosed that over 20,000 tear gas shells and rubber bullets have been procured, while patrols across the city have intensified.

In Rawalpindi, police are on high alert to ensure law and order during the protest. Over 4,500 police officers and personnel will be deployed at key locations, including Rawalpindi's entry points, city thoroughfares, and connecting roads to Islamabad.

Authorities have identified 47 points for sealing with containers, alongside 34 checkpoints across three divisions of Rawalpindi. Critical junctions such as GT Road, Taxila, and Motorway hotspots like Thatha Khalil will be fortified.