TLP offices, mosques closed as Punjab, Center launch sweeping crackdown

The Punjab government and Islamabad Capital Territory Administration have launched a crackdown on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, closing several of its offices, mosques and seminars amid heightened tensions ahead of the group’s planned protests.

The coordinated operation follows days of violence and comes just ahead of the TLP’s planned nationwide protests on Friday. Authorities said the crackdown was aimed at curbing unrest and preventing the misuse of religious platforms to incite violence and chaos.

In Islamabad, authorities sealed the TLP central office located in the rural area of ​​Murree Road in Athal Chowk, along with another party office in Madina Town on Simly Dam Road in Bhara Kahu.

The Anwar Madina Central Mosque and Seminary in Nai Abadi, Bhara Kahu, and another mosque in Mohallah Tekri were also closed.

Learn more: The government made efforts for a peaceful resolution, but the TLP chose violence: Naqvi

At the union council level, TLP offices in Shahpur and Mumtaz Qadri Mosque in Athal village were sealed, along with Jamia Mosque at Satrah Mile on Murree Road and TLP office, mosque and seminary UC-14 in Siri Chowk, Phulgran.

Officials confirmed that five new cases have been registered against TLP leaders and workers in ongoing legal proceedings.

Two complaints were filed at the Tarnol police station, naming 89 accused under four legal provisions, while the Sumbal police registered a case naming 33 workers and the Sangjani police filed another one against 51 TLP members. The authorities also decided to freeze all bank accounts associated with the group.

Repression in Lahore and Rawalpindi

In Lahore, the Punjab government intensified its actions, closing two major mosques in Johar Town and Model Town, including the TLP headquarters.

The Mohammadia Ghousia Central Mosque was placed under the supervision of the local administration, with a government-appointed cleric responsible for managing religious affairs.

A Chakri police video shows SHO additional sub-inspector Malik Bashir announcing the order through the mosque’s loudspeaker, urging residents to cooperate with authorities and warning against interference in administrative matters.

Read also: Section 144 extended as Punjab govt considers banning TLP after violent protests

In Rawalpindi, control of eight mosques and a seminary affiliated with the TLP was handed over to the Auqaf department. Police and administration officials deployed security personnel to the sites before formally handing over management and maintenance responsibilities.

Separately, a senior police officer confirmed that more than 5,500 police officers and personnel had been deployed in Rawalpindi ahead of Friday prayers, the first since the Muridke incidents.

Security checkpoints were set up at all entry and exit points, while police officers equipped with riot gear were stationed at sensitive locations, both in urban areas and cantonment areas. The officer clarified that despite the heightened alert, the roads would remain open and daily life would continue as normal.

Punjab promises ‘iron fist’ policy

The crackdown follows Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s law and order meeting, during which she ordered officials to adopt an “iron fist” approach against elements involved in bloodshed, sabotage and unrest.

Officials reiterated that the government’s actions did not target any religious groups, but targeted individuals and organizations with a history of disturbing the peace.

The government warned that such offenses would be prosecuted under anti-terrorism laws, while attempts to radicalize children or undermine the sanctity of religion would be subject to the same legal consequences.

A total ban was imposed on the use of nailed sticks, Molotov cocktails and all weapons during protests. Authorities have also been instructed to strictly enforce loudspeaker regulations.

Section 144 remains in force across Punjab until October 18, with violations punishable under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Officials said those who spread hate speech or misinformation online will be prosecuted under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act.

Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar said no one would be allowed to take to the streets under the cover of a strike, warning that rioters and instigators would face strict legal consequences, including up to 14 years in prison under anti-terrorism laws.

Markets, public transport and businesses will remain open as the government takes steps to ensure law and order across Punjab.