The law enforcement agencies in Lahore have initiated a widespread crackdown on individuals involved in the events of May 9, 2023, in anticipation of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) rally in the city planned on Saturday.
The city’s police force has laid out an extensive action plan, with divisional superintendents of police tasked to oversee the operations.
According to police officials, all station house officers have been directed to arrest those still at large from the May 9 incidents. The crackdown comes as the PTI gears up for a potential public gathering, with the police on high alert to ensure law and order are maintained.
A police spokesperson confirmed that security arrangements for the rally are being carefully planned, though the final decision on the extent of the security measures will be made once the rally’s location is confirmed. If the district administration grants permission for the rally, additional security duties will be assigned to officers on the ground.
To enhance security, cameras will be installed at the entrance gates of the potential meeting venue to record all attendees. Furthermore, officials posted at the rally will possess photos and data of the individuals wanted in connection with the May 9 events, ensuring they can be identified and apprehended if present.
On the other hand, a petition was filed in the Lahore High Court on Wednesday seeking to stop the PTI rally, pleading that the court order to stop the party from holding a rally anywhere in Punjab.
The application was filed by Mirza Wahid Rafique through Advocate Nadeem Sarwar. In the application, the PTI was made a party along with the Punjab government. It stated that anti-judiciary speeches are made in PTI rallies, and the judiciary and legal institutions are insulted.
It further noted that there was a danger of bloodshed at the planned Lahore jalsa, therefore, the PTI should be barred from holding a public meeting anywhere in Punjab.
