Rawalpindi, Islamabad – A caravan led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, a prominent member of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, has entered the Rawalpindi-Islamabad region as part of the ongoing PTI protest against the government. The convoy, which spent the night near Dhok Ghar at the Burhan Interchange, resumed its march towards Islamabad, with PTI’s central leadership, including Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi, and a large contingent of party workers accompanying the protest.
The caravan, which includes notable figures like provincial ministers and PTI leaders such as Umar Ayub, Asad Qaiser, and Aatif Khan, is expected to reach Islamabad later today. The protest is part of PTI’s broader political movement, which aims to pressure the government and demand the release of party chairman Imran Khan.
Police Officer Dies Amid Protest Violence
In a related development, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari reported that violence during the PTI protest has led to the tragic death of a police officer. Constable Mubashir succumbed to injuries after being attacked by protesters, with five other officers in critical condition. The Ministry of Interior has launched an investigation and is reviewing CCTV footage to identify the perpetrators of the violence. Law enforcement agencies have vowed to take strict action against those responsible.
Security Tightened as PTI Convoy Advances
As PTI's protest convoy heads toward Islamabad, authorities have implemented stringent security measures in both Rawalpindi and Islamabad. All major routes connecting the twin cities remain blocked for the second consecutive day, and the Metrobus service has been suspended. Educational institutions across Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and Murree have also been closed.
The government has deployed heavy security forces, with police maintaining strict surveillance over key entry points. Mobile and internet services in Rawalpindi and Islamabad have been severely restricted, with authorities citing security concerns.
PTI Protesters Face Heavy Resistance
The convoy, led by Ali Amin Gandapur and Bushra Bibi, crossed the Katti Pahari area and is now making its way toward Islamabad. As the convoy approaches, PTI workers have been met with resistance from law enforcement, particularly at the Brahma Jhang interchange, where police have used shelling to disperse protesters. Despite the crackdown, PTI workers have managed to remove roadblocks and continue their march.
Protesters, many of whom are wearing protective masks and carrying party flags, have resorted to stone-throwing tactics from hilltops to defend themselves against police shelling. The situation remains tense, with police employing tear gas, rubber bullets, and other anti-riot measures.
Rangers and Police on High Alert at Key Locations
In anticipation of further unrest, Rangers have been placed on high alert at critical locations, including the 26 Number Chungi, where a heavy police presence has been established. Sources indicate that law enforcement agencies are prepared to use tear gas, rubber bullets, and stones to combat the protesters.
At the same time, PTI claims that convoys from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and South Punjab are en route to Islamabad and are expected to join the central protest. The government has reinforced security at key points such as the 26 Number Flyover, where large stockpiles of stones have been gathered by law enforcement.
PTI’s Strategy Against Police Crackdown
Despite the escalating violence and resistance, PTI spokesperson Barrister Saif asserted that the party's protest is proceeding according to plan. He emphasized that the government’s time constraints would not deter PTI’s efforts, and the protest would continue until their demands are met, including the release of Imran Khan.
The convoy, which left Peshawar on Sunday, has faced significant obstacles, including resistance at the Ghazi Brotha Bridge and Hazara Expressway. However, PTI leaders remain hopeful that the convoy will reach Islamabad by noon, despite delays.
Widespread Arrests and Crackdown on PTI Workers
As the protest escalates, police have made numerous arrests, including over 139 individuals in Islamabad. Arrests have also been made at various locations, including Faizabad, Soan Interchange, and 26 Number Chungi. According to police sources, many of those arrested were found in possession of weapons such as knives and slingshots. The police have implemented Section 144 in Islamabad, making it illegal to gather in large numbers, and are warning of further crackdowns on violators.
Meanwhile, Rawalpindi police have arrested over 35 PTI workers, and security forces have conducted flag marches across the city. Police are also closely monitoring Adiala Jail, with all routes leading to the facility sealed off to prevent any disruption from protesters.
Transportation and Internet Disruptions Continue
In addition to the security clampdown, the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Metro Bus service has been suspended, and internet and mobile phone services have been disrupted in many areas. The Ministry of Interior has stated that mobile data services and Wi-Fi may remain limited in certain areas due to security concerns.
Imran Khan’s Call for Protest
The ongoing protest, called by PTI Chairman Imran Khan, has galvanized party members, with Bushra Bibi underscoring the importance of the protest as a test of loyalty for PTI leaders. Bibi also warned that party tickets for the next general elections would be awarded based on performance during the protest, emphasizing that those who fail to meet expectations would not be guaranteed a seat.
As the PTI convoy inches closer to Islamabad, the situation remains volatile, with both the government and protesters preparing for further confrontations in the coming hours.
