Over 30 PTI Supporters Arrested at Minar-e-Pakistan, Terrorism Charges Filed Against Leaders
Authorities in Lahore arrested over 30 supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, including lawyers, after they gathered late Saturday night at the historic Minar-e-Pakistan, demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The police announced on Sunday that more than 200 PTI leaders and workers, including Khan, have been charged under terrorism-related offenses.
To prevent the protest, hundreds of containers were placed across Lahore, blocking key entry and exit points. Roads leading to the residence of the ruling Sharif family were also sealed, and Rangers were deployed throughout the city.
The Minar-e-Pakistan site was closed to the public indefinitely, creating a curfew-like atmosphere. Despite the heavy security measures, some PTI supporters and lawyers managed to reach the site, chanting slogans in favor of their jailed leader. The police swiftly intervened and detained the protesters.
A spokesperson for the Punjab police confirmed the arrests and charges, stating that more than 30 individuals had been detained, and legal action had been initiated against over 200 party members. Among those briefly detained were former Punjab minister Mussarat Cheema and Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Bachar.
The leaders said the PTI supporters had gathered to celebrate Khan’s birthday and pass a “Haqeeqi Azadi” resolution at the iconic location, where the Pakistan Resolution was originally adopted in 1940.
Pashtun Tahafuz Movement Banned by Pakistan Government
In a separate development, the Pakistan government announced the ban of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), an organization advocating for the rights of ethnic Pashtuns. The government cited national security concerns as the reason for the decision.
According to the Interior Ministry, the PTM has been placed on the First Schedule as a proscribed organization due to activities deemed harmful to peace and security in the country.
