Massive Arrests of Khan’s Supporters Before Islamabad Rally
Pakistani law enforcement agencies have launched an extensive operation and massive arrests against supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, as thousands prepared to gather in Islamabad to demand his release. Authorities have reportedly arrested over 4,000 members of Khan’s political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), including five parliamentarians. Shahid Nawaz, a security official from Punjab province, confirmed the arrests.
Islamabad Secured Amid Rising Tensions
The federal capital has been transformed into a heavily secured zone, with shipping containers strategically placed to block key roads and highways connecting PTI strongholds in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Reports of confrontations between police and PTI members have surfaced, including incidents of teargas being deployed near provincial borders to disperse demonstrators.
To limit communication among PTI supporters, authorities have imposed restrictions on mobile and internet services in areas identified as “sensitive to security concerns.” However, specific details about the affected locations or the duration of these disruptions have not been disclosed. Activists have also reported blocks on social media platforms and interference with VPN usage.
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Islamabad Braces for Imran Khan Supporters’ March Amid High Alert
Supporters Push Forward Despite Crackdown
Despite these restrictive measures and massive arrests, PTI followers have shown resilience. In Peshawar, a celebratory atmosphere prevailed as supporters played the drums, danced, and carried portraits of Imran Khan while travelling to Islamabad. Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, is also on her way to the capital, accompanied by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister, Ali Amin Gandapur.
PTI spokesperson Sheikh Waqas Akram stressed the party’s unity, stating that Bushra Bibi “cannot abandon party workers at this critical moment.”
Communication Blackouts and International Warnings
The internet advocacy group NetBlocks has highlighted interruptions to popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, which are crucial for PTI’s coordination efforts. Telecom company Nayatel has stepped in, promoting landline services as an alternative during the mobile data suspension.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad has issued an advisory urging its citizens to steer clear of large gatherings, warning that peaceful protests could quickly escalate into violence.
Government Defends Security Measures
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi justified the stringent security arrangements and massive arrests, asserting they were essential to safeguard residents and maintain order. He criticized PTI for causing disruptions to daily life and warned that any attempt to breach Islamabad’s Red Zone—a secured area housing key government institutions—would result in arrests.
Naqvi further stated that the measures were necessary due to potential overlaps between the protest routes and the itinerary of visiting Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. The minister denied reports of a complete suspension of mobile services, claiming only mobile data was restricted.
A Divided Nation Amid Political Turmoil
Imran Khan, imprisoned for over a year and facing more than 150 criminal charges, continues to enjoy widespread public support. PTI leaders have dismissed the charges as politically driven attempts to suppress dissent and weaken the opposition.
The situation in Islamabad remains tense as the government’s actions draw criticism from human rights organizations and political commentators over massive arrests and violations. With the nation on edge, the unfolding developments will likely have significant implications for Pakistan’s political landscape.