Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Sarturday issued a stern directive to Islamabad Police, emphasizing that no individual involved in taking the law into their own hands will be allowed to go 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.
The visit was attended by key law enforcement officials, including IG Islamabad Police, Chief Commissioner, and DIG.
Speaking to the gathered officers, the Interior Minister highlighted the importance of maintaining order, especially in the lead-up to high-profile events.
"A Belarusian delegation, including President Alexander Lukashenko, 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.
Also Read: Islamabad protest: Over 500 PTI activists arrested in Lahore
Naqvi stressed the need for unity within the police force, urging officers to work as a cohesive team to ensure peace. He ordered swift action against any elements attempting to disrupt public order, stating that anyone caught undermining law and order would face arrest.
"This time, no one who takes the law into their own hands will be allowed to go back," Naqvi added firmly.
In his remarks, Naqvi also reassured the officers of the government’s support, emphasizing the importance of their safety while on duty. He encouraged the force to take all necessary precautions, including wearing protective helmets and jackets, to safeguard themselves while performing their duties. "We value you and your lives very much, and we will stand by you," he said.
Naqvi's statement comes as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has announced plans for a protest in Islamabad on November 24, particularly at D-Chowk.
PTI leaders have indicated that their members will remain in the city until their demands are met, raising concerns about potential disruptions. The government is preparing for possible challenges to public order as the protest is expected to draw a significant number of participants.
The Interior Minister reiterated that the government would not tolerate any attempts to disturb the peace or endanger the security of Islamabad’s residents. "We will take all possible measures to maintain law and order and protect the lives and property of citizens," Naqvi concluded.
Motorways, tand ransport hubs closed
The Islamabad Transport Authority has issued an official notification directing the closure of key transport hubs and major roads in the city as a precautionary measure ahead of a scheduled Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest on November 24. The announcement has raised concerns regarding potential disruptions to transportation services.
According to the notification, all transport hubs in Islamabad will be closed by 8:00 PM tonight, with barriers to be erected at all major transport points. The closure is aimed at maintaining law and order in the city, ensuring safety during the anticipated protest. Hub owners have been instructed to comply with the order and secure their premises to avoid any untoward incidents.
In addition, the Islamabad Transport Authority has taken further precautionary steps by urging the local administration to enforce the closure of all hostels in the city. The decision follows a rise in tensions in the lead-up to the protest, with authorities looking to limit gatherings in potential hotspot areas.
Meanwhile, the Motorway Police issued a statement confirming the closure of the M1 Motorway from Peshawar to Islamabad, as well as the M2 Motorway from Lahore to Islamabad, starting at 8:00 PM tonight. The closure, originally planned for road maintenance, has now been extended due to the expected protest, adding to the disruption of transport networks across the region.
The closure of these vital motorways and transport hubs will significantly impact travelers, as these routes are crucial for inter-city travel. Authorities have urged commuters to plan their journeys accordingly, advising them to take alternate routes if possible.
Plan finalised to counter PTI's Nov 24 protest
In the wake of the Islamabad High Court's ruling prohibiting protest demonstrations in the federal capital, the federal government has rolled out an extensive security plan aimed at preventing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers and leaders from entering Islamabad.
Over 50 entry points have been blocked, including the closure of key motorways, while heavy blockades have been placed to deter any attempts to breach the city’s defences.
The authorities have also moved to partially suspend mobile phone services and slow down internet speeds in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to control the flow of information and curb potential unrest.
The capital remains heavily guarded, with security forces, including Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC) units, already deployed to maintain order.
As part of the comprehensive strategy, the Islamabad administration has reinforced its security with additional personnel. A significant deployment of 19,000 Punjab Police officers has been completed, and additional contingents from Sindh and Kashmir are expected to arrive by Saturday morning.
The Islamabad Commissioner has requested that the Ministry of Interior provide additional support, including two Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) from Punjab Police, each with 1,000 personnel equipped with anti-riot kits. The force is bolstered further by the presence of 10 District Police Officers (DPOs) and 2,000 personnel from the Punjab and Sindh Constabulary.
Frontier Constabulary and Rangers have been granted special powers under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997 to ensure the smooth implementation of security measures.
A total of 66 platoons of FC are set to be deployed throughout the capital, with 30 platoons already stationed and an additional 36 to join them shortly. Each platoon, with a standard strength of 43 personnel, will work in tandem to secure key areas.
