RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi police have intensified security across the city following a late-night operation by Lahore police at Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) headquarters, which sparked violent clashes and raised fears of unrest spreading to other regions.
The crackdown, launched to arrest TLP chief Saad Rizvi ahead of the group’s planned anti-Israel protest in Islamabad, triggered street battles in Lahore as supporters hurled stones and used iron rods against police, injuring at least three constables. Law enforcement responded with tear gas, dispersing protesters along Multan Road amid escalating tensions.
In Rawalpindi, City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani convened a high-level meeting to review the evolving situation and direct heightened vigilance. “No one will be allowed to take the law into their hands or disrupt public life,” the CPO stated. “Blocking roads or creating unrest under any pretext will not be tolerated.”
Senior officers from operations, investigation, and divisional units were briefed to ensure strict enforcement and maintain peace. The CPO emphasized that police are fully prepared to deal with any attempt to incite violence. “Rawalpindi Police is determined to safeguard lives and property. Any aggression towards citizens or law enforcement will be met with decisive action,” he added.
Authorities have also instructed hostels and hotels along Murree Road and surrounding areas to clear non-essential occupants, with exemptions for foreigners, patients, and students appearing in exams.
Meanwhile, two TLP workers arrested earlier this week were remanded in police custody by a Rawalpindi Anti-Terrorism Court for 10 days after they were found transporting what police described as “dangerous items intended for violent protest.”
