Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has called for protests on November 24. The country’s government has already started gearing up to prevent protests. Barricades have already been made with containers on the entrance roads to important cities.
In addition, Section 144 has been imposed in Rawalpindi, prohibiting public gatherings, processions and gatherings of more than four people. Plans to shut down mobile and internet services in several areas including Islamabad and Punjab are also in full swing.
Meanwhile, PTI has said that they are ready to withdraw the protest program if their founder Imran Khan is released and the cases filed against him are dropped. This information was reported in a report by the country’s media outlet The Express Tribune on Thursday.
Another Pakistani media outlet Dawn reported that law enforcement agencies have taken strict security measures in Rawalpindi around PTI’s November 24 protest program. Plans have been made to block 50 points in the city. So that PTI workers cannot enter the capital Islamabad.
Police sources said that 50 entrances will be blocked with cargo containers, razor wire and barbed wire. A large number of police personnel and elite forces will be deployed to prevent protests. No one will be allowed to protest under any circumstances.
A senior police officer said that “extraordinary security measures” will be taken to maintain law and order and protect the lives and property of citizens. However, efforts are being made to avoid the risk of using water cannons and rubber bullets to avoid clashes with the protesters.
Dawn reported that more than 30 workers have already been arrested in the operation that began on Tuesday night to suppress PTI leaders and activists. Police fear that the protesters may bring weapons.
Meanwhile, the country’s media ARY News reported that plans are underway to shut down mobile and internet services in several areas including Islamabad and Punjab in connection with the November 24 protests. Internet speeds may be reduced from November 22, according to sources from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
In addition, Section 144 has been imposed in Rawalpindi, prohibiting public gatherings, processions and gatherings of more than four people.
