Police cancel leaves to prepare for PTI protest

RAWALPINDI:

The Rawalpindi police have cancelled the leaves of all officers and personnel in response to the upcoming protest called by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on November 24 at D-Chowk in Islamabad.

Officers on leave have been ordered to return to duty immediately to ensure law and order is maintained during the protest. Those failing to comply with the orders face potential dismissal.

In light of PTI's nationwide protest call, including in the federal capital, the Rawalpindi police have taken stringent measures to maintain peace. To ensure full preparedness, the leave of all officers and personnel, except for emergency situations, has been revoked.

CPO Khalid Hamdani issued a directive to all divisional SPs, SDPOs, SSP Operations, and other relevant authorities, instructing them to ensure that all officers and personnel return to their assigned duties promptly.

The letter warns that failure to report back for duty will result in dismissal. It also emphasises the importance of immediate implementation of these orders to maintain law and order in the city.

Gatherings banned

Meanwhile, Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner (DC) Hassan Waqar Cheema has imposed Section 144 in the district for six days in view of the PTI protest on November 24, imposing a ban on all types of gatherings, demonstrations, and rallies.

In case of any violation, the violators will face legal action under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA). Section 144 has also been imposed in the districts of Jhelum, Attock, Chakwal, Talagang, and Murree. Section 144 will remain enforced till November 26.

Besides this, the government has also deployed Rangers in Rawalpindi, Jhelum and Attock. On November 24, a ban on motorcycle pillion riding will also be in effect.