RAWALPINDI — Law enforcers in twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad launched fresh crackdown on workers and leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) ahead of SCO summit.
In preemptive move ahead of a planned protest by Imran Khan’s party at D-Chowk, Pindi cops started detaining party workers and conducted overnight raids on the homes of several activits. The protests are scheduled to take place at D-Chowk in Islamabad on October 15.
Senior leader Raja Basharat, ex-lawmaker Wahid Qasim, Arif Abbasi, and Rashid Hafiz residences and offices were raided; leaders however remain at large.
A police spokesperson confirmed that Section 144, which prohibits gatherings, is currently enforced in Rawalpindi, rendering any protests unauthorized. This security measure comes as authorities prepare for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, raising concerns about public safety.
In a separate incident, police attempted to raid the home of former National Assembly candidate Shehryar Riaz, but he was not present at the time. Islamabad police and armed forces are also finalizing plans to manage potential law and order issues as the situation develops.
Pakistan Army takes over security responsibilities in Islamabad
