Pakistan Army troops have officially taken control of security in the capital, Islamabad, under Article 245 of the Constitution.
According to official sources, the Interior Ministry ordered the deployment of the troops under the Constitution, while police and other institutions will also assist the army in carrying out security duties.
The sources said that the army deployment in and around the city has been completed, with a clear mandate to protect the lives and property of citizens and maintain law and order. The troops have taken positions in the D-Chowk area where the PTI had announced it will stage a protest demonstration on Saturday.
In an effort to ensure the safety of residents, army personnel have already started patrolling various parts of Islamabad.
Security sources emphasized that no miscreants or disruptive elements will be allowed to disturb the peace.
Additionally, troops from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have also been dispatched to reinforce the security presence in and aorund the capital, as well as in response to potential unrest from anarchist groups.
Security measures have been tightened to ensure the safety of the residents as well as for the upcoming SCO Summit, and authorities are keen on ensuring that no one is able to create chaos during this critical period.
"The safety of the people and the success of the summit are our top priorities," said one security official.
Earlier, it was reported that the Pakistan Army will be deployed in Islamabad during the upcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
According to a notification issued by the government, the Pakistan Army has been deployed in Islamabad until October 17 under Article 245 of the Constitution after a summary for the same was approved by the federal cabinet through circulation.
It added that paramilitary Rangers will be deployed outside key government buildings and on connecting roads within the Red Zone till the end of the summit.
A comprehensive security plan had been approved by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to ensure foolproof security arrangements for the summit.
It should be noted that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit will be held in Islamabad on October 15 and 16, in which delegations of nine member countries, four observers, 14 dialogue partners and four guest delegates will participate.
