The Islamabad administration has implemented extensive security measures ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24.
Key areas, including the Red Zone and D-Chowk, have been fully sealed, with additional forces arriving from other provinces to assist Islamabad police. A total of 2,200 containers have been deployed to block 24 critical entry and exit points across the city, including 10 major routes already closed. Fourteen more routes will be sealed by tonight, restricting movement in and out of the capital.
Over 19,000 personnel from the Punjab Police have been stationed in Islamabad, supported by Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC). Additional police resources from Sindh and Azad Kashmir have also been dispatched. Rangers have been deployed at locations such as 26 No. Chungi, Tarnol, Sangjani, and Attock's Kati Pahari, equipped with tear gas and anti-riot gear.
Hospitals across Islamabad have been put on high alert, with medical staff leave suspended to prepare for potential emergencies.
The Islamabad police reiterated on Saturday that Section 144 is in effect in the federal capital and urged citizens to comply with the law, warning against participating in unlawful activities. A police spokesperson emphasized maintaining public order as per directives from the Islamabad High Court, adding that all measures will be taken to enforce Section 144 and protect citizens' safety.
The spokesperson assured that resources would be utilized to safeguard lives and property and warned of strict action against violators of legal orders.
Meanwhile, the National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA) issued a threat alert about possible terrorist attacks during the PTI protest. According to NACTA, the militant group Fitna al-Khawarij is planning attacks during the protest and has reportedly sent operatives into various cities after crossing the Pak-Afghan border on November 19 and 20.
The group is believed to be targeting public gatherings and rallies. "There is a credible threat of terrorism from Fitna al-Khawarij during the PTI protest in Islamabad," NACTA stated, urging law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant.
