Authorities enforce Article 144 across the district, banning public gatherings for 15 days
RAWALPINDI:
A planned PTI protest outside Adiala Prison on Tuesday was disrupted when law enforcement agencies arrested several party leaders and workers, including the sisters of incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan, amid drastic restrictions imposed in Rawalpindi.
The party had called for a “peaceful protest” against restrictions on meetings with its founder, but authorities enforced Section 144 across the district, banning public gatherings for 15 days.
Despite restrictions and persistent rains in the twin cities, a significant number of PTI leaders and supporters attempted to reach the jail premises, only to be intercepted at several places by law enforcement agencies.
PTI central committee member Seemabia Tahir said the group, including Imran Khan’s sisters, was arrested near DHA Chowk. “Law enforcement had already liberated a nearby hotel; they arrested Noreen Niazi and Uzma Khan, as well as several employees, and closed the hotel’s shutters after arresting them,” she explained.
PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram condemned the operation, saying the leaders and workers were arrested and subjected to force. He said protesters faced heavy shelling and baton charges, while roads leading to Adiala prison were closed.
According to him, several party members from different areas were arrested at rest stops, including Kallar Kahar and Chakri, where arrests also took place.
He said at least five members of the Punjab Assembly, including opposition leader Moeen Qureshi, had been arrested.
