Live Updates: Bushra Bibi part of Gandapur-led PTI convoy en route to Islamabad

Tensions flared across Punjab and in the capital city of Islamabad as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers clashed with police authorities during protests in multiple cities, resulting in arrests and violent confrontations.

PTI workers pelted police personnel with stones at Faizabad while attempting to enter Islamabad. Due to heavy police deployment, the PTI protesters failed to achieve their objectives and ended up pelting police with stones. 

Police have said no miscreant will be allowed to take law into their own hands. Action will be taken against the miscreants as per law, and they will be dealt with with iron hands, they added. 

In Gujranwala's Tatlay Aali area, former PTI MNA Bilal Ijaz joined party workers in their march on Islamabad in violation of Section 144. As the police attempted to block their way, the workers started thrashing them and forced them to flee from the spot to save their lives. 

Police, however, managed to arrest six workers and shift them to the local station. PTI Central Punjab President Rana Bilal Ijaz and the district president reportedly escaped from police custody during the chaos. 

In Attock, the convoy of PTI workers reaching motorway M-1 from Ghazi started pelting stones with police right in the front. The PTI workers also lit a fire on the motorway, as the authorities issued warnings against such acts. 

It is suspected that the chaos will escalate once Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur's convoy arrives.

Meanwhile, on the Faisalabad-Sargodha Road, PTI workers pelted police with stones near the interchange. Over 400 individuals, including an MPA, were arrested on charges of violating Section 144 and resorting to stone-pelting. A heavy contingent of police was summoned to Sargodha Road to control the situation.

In Dera Ismail Khan, similar clashes occurred at the Isakhel Interchange, where the police force fired tear gas shells at PTI workers, who attacked the law enforcers. Police were forced to retreat and run for their lives. 

Also Read: Multiple PTI lawmakers, workers arrested in nationwide crackdown

Tensions also ran high on Sialkot's Paris Road as PTI's women workers faced off with police. The confrontation led to the arrests of several workers.

PTI leader Rehana Dar, leading a convoy from Khawaja Safdar Road, arrived on Paris Road holding the PTI flag, accompanied by party supporters. When police attempted to disperse the rally, citing Section 144 restrictions, the women workers protested against the action, resulting in several arrests.

Rehana Dar blocked the police van, and managed to get the arrested women freed. However, a woman participant was reportedly overpowered by police.

During the rally, Rehana Dar's daughter-in-law Ruba Omar entered Jinnah House by breaking the lock. The rally dispersed after reaching Jinnah House. Another rally was taken out at Sublime Chowk under the leadership of PTI leader Omar Dar.

Also Read: Bushra Bibi part of Gandapur-led PTI convoy en route to Islamabad

Police and law enforcement agencies across Pakistan have launched a major crackdown on PTI workers and leaders in response to protests called by the party. The operations have resulted in dozens of arrests as authorities impose strict measures to maintain law and order, including parliamentarians and MPAs. 

Lahore:

PTI's Punjab Information Secretary Hafiz Zeeshan and former MPA Nadeem Abbas were arrested from Lytton Road.

Moreover, 20 PTI workers were arrested from Batti Chowk, including 12 women workers, as part of a crackdown in the area and its adjoining highways, led by the DIG operations. Police said action will be taken against those arrested for violating Section 144. Police transferred the arrested workers to a prisoner van. All the people coming to Ravi Road have been restricted to streets. 

Police also stopped a PTI convoy in Shahdara, arresting six workers. PTI ticket-holder Zameer Ahmed Jhedu was also arrested from Hajveri Tower near the high court, as per sources. 

Faisalabad:

PTI-backed MPA Basharat Dogar has been arrested from Sargodha Road, as per sources. On the other hand, 485 PTI workers were arrested for stone-pelting on police and violating Section 144, the police said. 

Pakpattan:

More than 90 PTI workers have been arrested over violation of Section 144. Local leaders Umar Hashim, Talha Saeed, Tariq Shah, and Mehr Moin are among those arrested. 

A convoy led by Opposition Leader Omar Ayub Khan departed from Haripur on Sunday, as part of a protest movement demanding the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder Imran Khan.

The protest is being called a "final call" against the federal government’s alleged oppressive measures.

A couple of hours later, police shelled the convoy led by Ayub at the Punjab-KP border area of Jhand. 

Addressing supporters before the convoy’s departure, Mr Ayub claimed that the government’s response to the movement highlights its fear of public dissent.

"The success of our call is evident as the government has disconnected the entire country from Islamabad and Rawalpindi," he said, referring to the closure of major routes and highways.

The Motorway, he alleged, has been shut down under the pretext of repair work to hinder the protesters’ journey. Despite this, Mr Ayub vowed to press ahead, declaring that the protest would continue until the PTI founder is released.

“I congratulate the people of Haripur and Hazara for coming out in such large numbers. Their enthusiasm is a testament to their opposition to the federal government’s actions,” he remarked.

The opposition leader further revealed that convoys from Abbottabad and Haripur will merge en route to Islamabad.

Meanwhile, former federal minister Ali Amin Gandapur has also joined the movement, having departed from Peshawar.

Supporters cheered as Omar Ayub pledged to sustain the protest against what he described as the "atrocities of the federal government." The opposition’s show of strength in Haripur and Hazara, he added, reflects growing public discontent with the government’s policies.

PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram confirmed that the wife of Imran khan, Bushra Bibi is part of the PTI convoy leaving Peshawar, alongside workers traveling to Islamabad for the ongoing protest.

The convoy, under the leadership of Ali Amin Gandapur and Sheikh Waqas Akram, is heading towards the capital, with Bushra Bibi traveling alongside the workers.

Sheikh Waqas Akram emphasized the importance of solidarity during this time, stating, "The workers cannot be left alone at this moment." He further added that if PTI expects workers to bring their families, then it would be only fitting for Khan's family to be the first to participate in the march.

Akram expressed confidence that the goals set by Imran Khan will be successfully achieved, despite the ongoing challenges.

The convoy continues its journey as PTI remains determined in its call for protest in Islamabad.

Earlier, the convoy of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister (CM) was unable to leave the province amid internal disagreements and logistical challenges, sources revealed.

Reportedly, Bushri Bibi, a key figure within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), expressed her intention to participate in the ongoing protest. However, PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur has prohibited her from joining, citing the already precarious situation faced by the party.

“There are already enough difficulties for us,” Gandapur reportedly stated, emphasizing the need to avoid any missteps at this critical juncture. Meanwhile, Bushri Bibi remained firm in her stance, asserting that she is adhering to the directives of PTI Chairman Imran Khan.

Sources disclosed that the disagreement led to a heated discussion between Gandapur and Bushri Bibi. “I am following Khan Sahib's orders,” both leaders maintained during their exchange.

The inability to resolve these differences and the ongoing logistical hurdles are raising concerns about the party's ability to manage its protest efforts effectively. Observers suggest that after multiple setbacks, PTI cannot afford another failure, making internal cohesion crucial at this time.

The convoy of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister was unable to leave the province amid internal disagreements and logistical challenges, sources revealed.

Reportedly, Bushri Bibi, a key figure within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), expressed her intention to participate in the ongoing protest. However, PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur has prohibited her from joining, citing the already precarious situation faced by the party.

“There are already enough difficulties for us,” Gandapur reportedly stated, emphasizing the need to avoid any missteps at this critical juncture. Meanwhile, Bushri Bibi remained firm in her stance, asserting that she is adhering to the directives of PTI Chairman Imran Khan.

Sources disclosed that the disagreement led to a heated discussion between Gandapur and Bushri Bibi. “I am following Khan Sahib's orders,” both leaders maintained during their exchange.

The inability to resolve these differences and the ongoing logistical hurdles are raising concerns about the party's ability to manage its protest efforts effectively. Observers suggest that after multiple setbacks, PTI cannot afford another failure, making internal cohesion crucial at this time.

Police and law enforcement agencies across Pakistan have launched a major crackdown on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers and leaders in response to protests called by the party.

The operations have resulted in dozens of arrests as authorities impose strict measures to maintain law and order including parliamentarians and MPAs. 

Lahore:

PTI's Punjab Information Secretary Hafiz Zeeshan and former MPA Nadeem Abbas were arrested from Lytton Road.

Moreover, 20 PTI workers were arrested from Batti Chowk, including 12 women workers, as part of a crackdown in the area and its adjoining highways, led by the DIG operations. Police said action will be taken against those arrested for violating Section 144. Police transferred the arrested workers to a prisoner van. All the people coming to Ravi Road have been restricted to streets. 

Police also stopped a PTI convoy in Shahdara, arresting six workers. PTI ticket-holder Zameer Ahmed Jhedu was also arrested from Hajveri Tower near the high court, as per sources. 

Faisalabad:

PTI-backed MPA Basharat Dogar has been arrested from Sargodha Road, as per sources. On the other hand, 485 PTI workers were arrested for stone-pelting on police and violating Section 144, the police said. 

Pakpattan:

More than 90 PTI workers have been arrested over violation of Section 144. Local leaders Umar Hashim, Talha Saeed, Tariq Shah, and Mehr Moin are among those arrested. 

Burewala:

Police intensified their crackdown, arresting 65 PTI workers from various police stations in Circle Burewala. Arrests include 15 from Model Town, 16 from Gaggu Mandi, eight from Saddar Town police precincts, 10 from City police station precincts, nine from Sahuka, and five from Sheikh Fazil.

Safdarabad:

PTI Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Waqas Mehmood Mann was arrested following a raid on his dera by the police.

Later, the police force besieged a PTI rally leaving for the Islamabad protest, and arrested eight workers, including PTI city President Mehr Mudassar Iqbal. 

Chichawatni:

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf MNA Rai Hassan Nawaz Khan has been arrested by police from the National Highway at Chichawatni bypass.

Multan:

Protests in Islamabad triggered arrests of PTI leaders Malik Aamir Dogar, Zain Qureshi, and Moinuddin Riaz Qureshi, along with over 500 workers. Other notable arrests include Rana Tufail and activists from Lal Haveli Qadirpur. Later, MPAs Nadeem Qureshi and Waseem Barozai were also arrested. 

Dera Ghazi Khan:

Authorities arrested more than 38 PTI workers. Former Punjab Assembly member Sardar Mohiuddin Khosa and his elder brother were among those taken into custody.

Sahiwal:

Ahead of protests scheduled for November 24, police mobilized to stop PTI workers from traveling to Islamabad, arresting 30 individuals.

Dunyapur:

Strict enforcement of Section 144 led to the registration of cases against 38 individuals across City, Jalla Arain, and Galewal police stations. All accused have been arrested, with DSP Mian Abdul Rauf emphasizing zero tolerance for violations.

Gojra:

Raids on PTI workers' homes resulted in the arrests of MPA Asad Zaman Cheema, Malik Adnan, and Mian Asim, with many activists reportedly in hiding.

Rawalpindi:

The city's entry and exit points were blocked with containers, and over 110 PTI workers were detained across the district. Special teams were formed to apprehend active workers listed by police.

Bhimbher:

All routes leading from Azad Kashmir to Punjab have been blocked and huge barriers erected at all entry points. Security is on high alert at all entry and exit routes. Police have also arrested PTI district president Chaudhry Asif Mahmood. 

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari on Sunday reacting to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) today's "final showdown" asserted that the state will not capitulate to rioters.

Addressing a presser, Minister Azma Bokhari sought to downplay the claims of unrest, saying, “The situation in Lahore is normal. People are peacefully going about their daily routines, having breakfast, and celebrating Chitthi. The protests and demonstrations we hear about are largely confined to WhatsApp groups.”

She also addressed the claims of a widespread revolution, dismissing them as unfounded. “Those who claim to bring revolution are still asleep,” she remarked. “Bushra Baji, who urged the nation to wake up, is herself resting, and neither she nor the family of PTI’s founder are involved in any protests.”

The minister also took aim at PTI’s leadership for involving government employees in protests, warning that any attempt to create chaos in the province would not succeed. "The state will not surrender to rioters," she declared.

Commenting on the political dynamics in the Punjab Assembly, Minister Bokhari pointed out that despite the 104 members of the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in the provincial legislature, “We are still waiting for the militants, but no one is showing up.”

In her remarks, the minister also touched on the heightened security concerns in the region. She mentioned a threat alert issued by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa the previous day, referring to the arrest of three terrorists from the Park Tower in Islamabad's F10 sector. The individuals, Bukhari said, were implicated in terrorist activities in Balochistan.

The minister further highlighted the Punjab government’s stance on the ongoing political turmoil, suggesting that the protests were not gaining traction among the public.

“Not even a thousand people have come out for the protest in Punjab,” she stated. “Meanwhile, Ali Amin Gandapur, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has vowed to stage a sit-in until PTI’s founder is released. But in reality, their concerns lie with the influx of foreign investment into the country.”

The ongoing protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have led to the closure of highways, causing significant disruption in the supply chain of vegetables and fruits to local markets.

The road blockages have severely impacted the transportation of fresh produce, leading to a spike in prices.

Citizens report that the cost of vegetables and fruits has surged, making essential items less affordable for many.

Market vendors attribute the increase in prices to supply shortages caused by the restricted movement of goods.

The disruption is expected to persist as long as the protests and road closures continue, adding to the concerns of residents already grappling with inflation.

Efforts to restore the supply chain remain uncertain as the protests show no signs of abating.

On the call of its Founding Chairman Imran Khan, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) will stage what it has declared a decisive protest at D-Chowk in Islamabad today November 24.

The protest aims to secure the release of former premier  Imran Khan and press for other party demands.

The federal capital has been effectively locked down, with major highways and entry points sealed to prevent protesters from reaching the designated venue.

Convoys from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, led by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, are scheduled to converge at Swabi at 11 a.m. before making their way towards Islamabad.

Also Read: Terrorism threat alert issued ahead of PTI protest 

PTI leadership has reiterated its commitment to reaching D-Chowk despite the blockades and government-imposed restrictions.

CM Gandapur vows to overcome all obstacles 

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has vowed to overcome all obstacles to reach the protest site, even hinting at the use of private machinery to remove roadblocks.

"No matter how many containers the government places, we will proceed to Islamabad and stage our sit-in until our demands are met," he declared.

Shandana Gulzar, another senior PTI leader, echoed this resolve, stating, "Even if it takes us 100 hours, we will not back down. Wherever the roads are blocked, we will begin our sit-in."

Also Read: Islamabad police warns against violation of IHC order, Section 144

In a notable absence, Bushra Bibi, the wife of PTI’s founding chairman, has chosen to monitor the convoys from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister's House rather than participate directly.

Mohsin Naqvi stands firm against lawbreakers 

The federal government has reiterated its intent to enforce Islamabad High Court orders banning protests and sit-ins in the capital. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has warned of strict action against anyone attempting to disrupt public order. Speaking at Police Lines, Naqvi emphasized, "This time, those who take the law into their hands will not be spared."

Naqvi also highlighted the arrival of an 80-member high-level delegation from Belarus, stating that maintaining peace during the official visit is a top priority. PTI leader Barrister Gauhar, in discussions with the Interior Minister, has sought time to consult with party leadership about postponing the protest.

Heightened security and terror alerts

The National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) has issued a warning of potential terrorist activity targeting the protest. It reported that militants had entered Pakistan via the Pak-Afghan border to carry out attacks. Similarly, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Home Department alerted authorities to the threat of a possible suicide attack during the protest.

Islamabad has been placed under tight security to counter these threats, with over 30,000 police personnel, including Frontier Corps (FC) and forces from other provinces, deployed. Major roads and motorways leading to the capital, including the Lahore-Islamabad and Peshawar-Islamabad routes, have been closed.

Combing operations against PTI workers

The lockdown has caused significant public inconvenience. Roads connecting Lahore, Faisalabad, and Jhelum to Islamabad have been blocked, while metro bus services in the vicinity remain suspended.

The police have already arrested over 300 PTI workers in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with raids ongoing to detain additional activists.

Meanwhile, PTI Punjab’s Vice President and several other key figures have been detained as part of the government’s preemptive measures.

Flight operations to continue uninterrupted

The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has dismissed rumours about suspending flight operations or passenger restrictions at airports across the country, including Islamabad.

The clarification comes amidst circulating reports alleging disruptions due to a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest in the federal capital.

In a statement issued on Friday, the CAA assured travellers that flight operations at all airports, including Islamabad International Airport, are proceeding as scheduled. "Passengers arriving in or departing from Pakistan will face no hindrances," the authority stated, urging the public to disregard baseless rumours.

The clarification follows media reports suggesting that international passengers may be detained at Islamabad Airport as a precautionary measure in light of the PTI's protest. Convoys from cities such as Lahore and Peshawar are expected to converge in Islamabad later today, prompting the government to implement security measures in the city.

The CAA has categorically termed these reports "fabricated and unfounded," emphasizing that no such directives have been issued. “Passengers arriving at Islamabad Airport or any other airport in the country will not be subjected to delays or restrictions,” the statement read.

The authority further urged the public to rely only on credible sources for updates and to avoid spreading misinformation.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Saturday that the embattled Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) became a threat to national security.

Expressing his thoughts, Asif took a jibe at PTI founder Imran Khan, saying, “The PTI founder is habitual of holding talks with the military leadership. Holding the negotiations with the political leadership is against the status of the PTI founder.”

He continued to berate the PTI, saying, “The PTI leadership is embracing incitement.”

Speaking about Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Asif said, “Ali Amin Gandapur is playing on both sides of the wicket.”

Asif stated: “No action will be taken against Ali Amin Gandapur as of now.”

Giving his take on the PTI’s forthcoming protest, Asif stated: “There is no chance of success of the PTI’s protest.”

Few days back, Asif that there was no chance of the PTI founder's release.

Speaking to media outside the Parliament House, Asif said: "It is also unlikely that Imran Khan will get relief as of now. The PTI is making full efforts to avoid staging its upcoming protest on November 24."

"Both political and military leaderships are moving the country's matters forward. We will not allow any province's attack on the center at any cost."

Asif asserted, "Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is holding talks with the establishment since day one."

"Anything can happen in the country's political landscape; there are still two days left before the PTI's protest," he stated.

Asif maintained, "The federal government can give the permission of staging the protest, but an attack on the center will not be allowed at all."

He said, "The lobby underway in the favor of the PTI founder. The PTI workers are indulged in the funding for the foreign lobby and harming the country."

 Watch live coverage

Former first lady Bushra Bibi will not participate in the forthcoming protest of the embattled Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

In a statement issued by PTI leader Sheikh Waqas Akram on Saturday, it was confirmed that Bushra Bibi will not participate in the upcoming protest. “Bushra Bibi is a housewife, and she will not participate in the protest. We have been discussing this issue regularly for the past five days," he stated.

“Bushra Bibi had no plan to be part of the public gathering,” said Akram.

On the other side, Bushra Bibi’s spokesperson, Mashal Yousafzai had also confirmed that the former first lady will not participate in the PTI’s protest.

Yousafzai said, “Bushra Bibi will not participate in the protest due to the health issues.”

Watch live coverage

Internet services will be suspended in several major cities starting from midnight tonight.

According to sources, the services will be suspended in Islamabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan, and Gujranwala. 

Mobile phone services will remain operational for now, while internet and broadband services will be suspended, apparently as part of heightened security measures ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24.

Sources also indicated that a decision regarding the suspension of mobile phone services will be taken after evaluating the situation on the ground.

The Ministry of Interior has ordered the PTA to suspend mobile and internet services from midnight tonight.

The interior ministry said: "The internet shutdowns in areas with security concerns will be determined by reviewing the situation."

The spokesperson added that the internet and mobile phone services will continue as usual in other regions.
"The internet and mobile phone services would continue to operate as usual in the rest of the country," the interior ministry added.

The sources say they were currently reviewing the situation according to which they could suspend mobile and internet services tomorrow. Mobile phone and internet services are likely to be shut down from midnight tonight. 

Also Read: Terrorism threat alert issued ahead of PTI protest

The National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA) has issued a threat alert about possible terrorist attacks during the upcoming Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest in Islamabad.

The NACTA alert highlights threats from the Fitna al-Khawarij, which is reportedly planning attacks during the PTI protest in Islamabad. It added that members of the terrorist group are planning attacks in major cities of Pakistan. 

According to NACTA, several attackers associated with the group have already crossed the Pak-Afghan border and entered various cities on the nights of November 19 and 20. The group is believed to be targeting public gatherings and rallies. 

“There is a credible threat of terrorism from Fitna al-Khawarij during the PTI's possible protest in Islamabad,” the NACTA statement reads, urging law enforcement agencies to remain on high alert. 

Furthermore, the Islamabad administration has undertaken massive security measures to counter the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24. 

Also Read: Islamabad sealed over PTI protest, security tightened across country

Key areas, including the entire area of the sensitive Red Zone and D-Chowk, have been completely sealed, with additional reinforcements arriving from other provinces to assist the Islamabad police.

A total of 2,200 containers have been placed to block 24 critical entry and exit points across the city, including 10 major points already blocked. Fourteen additional routes are set to be closed by tonight, limiting movement in and out of the capital.

Over 19,000 officers and personnel from the Punjab Police have been stationed in Islamabad, supported by Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC). Additional police forces and equipment have also been dispatched from Sindh and Azad Kashmir to bolster the Islamabad police's efforts. 

Rangers personnel have been deployed at 26 No. Chungi and Tarnol, as well as Sangjani and Attock's Kati Pahari. Rangers personnel are equipped with tear gas shells and anti-riot equipment. 

Also Read: Islamabad police warns against violation of IHC order, Section 144

The Islamabad police reinforced on Saturday that Section 144 is implemented in the federal capital, and urged citizens to abide by the law and avoid participating in any unlawful activities.

A police spokesperson stated that public order will be maintained as per the Islamabad High Court's directives. "All necessary steps will be taken to ensure the effective implementation of Section 144," the spokesperson added.

Emphasizing public safety, the spokesperson assured that all available resources will be utilized to protect the lives and property of citizens. "Citizens are requested not to become part of any illegal activity," the spokesperson said.

The National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA) has issued a threat alert about possible terrorist attacks during the upcoming Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest in Islamabad.

The NACTA alert highlights threats from the Fitna al-Khawarij, which is reportedly planning attacks during the PTI protest in Islamabad. It added that members of the terrorist group are planning attacks in major cities of Pakistan. 

According to NACTA, several attackers associated with the group have already crossed the Pak-Afghan border and entered various cities on the nights of November 19 and 20. The group is believed to be targeting public gatherings and rallies. 

“There is a credible threat of terrorism from Fitna al-Khawarij during the PTI's possible protest in Islamabad,” the NACTA statement reads, urging law enforcement agencies to remain on high alert.

Also Read: Govt bound by court orders, can't allow protests: Naqvi tells Gohar

Moreover, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has also issued a suicide blast alert during the PTI protest in Islamabad. The alert was issued by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Home Department. 

The alert claimed that terrorists had planned suicide bombing during the PTI protest, therefore, relevant agencies should take security measures in view of a possible terrorist incident.

The department said that the threat alert had been sent by NACTA and forwarded to the relevant people. 

On the other hand, Islamabad police continued to arrest miscreants as it conducts search operations in various areas of the capital in view of the November 24 protest by the PTI in Islamabad. In these operations, 200 miscreants have been arrested so far, police sources said. "Weapons were also recovered from the arrested miscreants," they added. 

Meanwhile, the Islamabad police reinforced that Section 144 is implemented in the federal capital, and urged citizens to abide by the law and avoid participating in any unlawful activities. 

A police spokesperson stated that public order will be maintained as per the Islamabad High Court's directives. "All necessary steps will be taken to ensure the effective implementation of Section 144," the spokesperson added.

Also Read: Naqvi tells Islamabad Police to show 'no mercy' to lawbreakers amid PTI protest plans

Emphasizing public safety, the spokesperson assured that all available resources will be utilized to protect the lives and property of citizens. "Citizens are requested not to become part of any illegal activity," the spokesperson said.

The police also warned, "Strict action will be taken against those who violate legal orders."

Earlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi contacted PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar to discuss in detail the current situation amid PTI's protest scheduled for November 24. 

Naqvi also apprised Gohar of the situation arising after the Islamabad High Court's latest order regarding the protest, and stressed that the government was bound by the orders of the court. 

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi contacted PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar to discuss in detail the current situation amid PTI's protest scheduled for November 24. 

Naqvi also apprised Gohar of the situation arising after the Islamabad High Court's latest order regarding the protest, and stressed that the government was bound by the orders of the court. 

During their detailed conversation, Naqvi emphasized the government's commitment to adhering to the court's directives.

"The Islamabad High Court order binds us, and we cannot allow any processions, sit-ins, or rallies,” Naqvi stated.

Naqvi also updated Gohar that a high-level Belarusian delegation is set to arrive in Islamabad on November 24, followed by the president of Belarus on November 25. The delegation will remain in the capital until November 27. 

Also Read: Naqvi tells Islamabad Police to show 'no mercy' to lawbreakers amid PTI protest plans

In response, Barrister Gohar assured that he would provide a final answer after consulting with his party. 

Earlier in the day, Mohsin Naqvi issued a stern directive to Islamabad Police, emphasizing that no individual involved in taking the law into their hands would be allowed to go scot-free. 

During an early morning visit to the Islamabad Police Lines, Naqvi commended the efforts of the police force for their role in maintaining peace and security across the city. Key law enforcement officials, including the Islamabad police IG, chief commissioner, and DIG, were also present on the occasion. 

Speaking to the officers, the minister highlighted the importance of maintaining order, especially in the lead-up to high-profile events. "A Belarusian delegation will be visiting Pakistan tomorrow, with the president’s official visit scheduled for November 25. Ensuring the safety of Islamabad during this period is paramount," Naqvi said.

On Nov 21, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) had issued a clear directive to the Islamabad administration, stressing the importance of adhering to the law regarding protests, sit-ins, and rallies.  The decision came in response to a petition filed by businessman Asad Aziz, which raised concerns about disruptions to the lives and livelihoods of residents due to political gatherings announced by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on November 24.

Read also: IHC orders no protests without legal approval in Islamabad

In his written judgment, Chief Justice Aamir Farooq stressed the constitutional balance between the rights to assembly and movement, stating that these rights are subject to reasonable and proportionate restrictions. The court cited the recently enacted Peaceful Protest and Public Order Act 2024, which mandates prior approval from the District Magistrate for any public assembly in Islamabad.

The court noted that PTI had announced a rally and sit-in on November 24 but had not yet filed the requisite application for permission. It also highlighted the significance of maintaining law and order in light of the upcoming visit of the Belarusian president on November 25, which involves heightened security measures.

“While the right to protest is fundamental, it must not infringe on the rights of other citizens or disrupt critical state functions,” the judgement read. 

The court directed the Interior Ministry to form a committee, including the chief commissioner of Islamabad and other relevant officials, to hold formal discussions with PTI's leadership. The aim is to address security concerns and minimize disruptions to public life.