Crackdown on PTI workers in Lahore ahead of rally, over 500 arrested

In anticipation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) planned protest on October 5 in Lahore, local police have launched a massive crackdown, arresting more than 500 party workers on Friday. 

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, to ensure security, the Lahore district administration has also enlisted the support of Rangers, deploying three companies in various parts of the city.

The sources said police raids on PTI workers' homes have been ongoing since last night. In addition to party workers, individuals providing vehicles, sound systems, and chairs for the protest have also been arrested. 

According to the channel report, police are holding several of those detained in connection with cases related to the May 9 incidents. The arrested workers have been placed in police stations across different divisions.

First Information Reports (FIRs) have been filed in different police stations, including Hanjarwal, Manawan, Harbanspura, and Mozang.

Meanwhile, the local PTI leadership, responsible for organising the protest, has reportedly gone underground. Sources revealed that many PTI workers are unaware of the protest plan and are uncertain who will lead the demonstration.

Key figures, including PTI Lahore President Sheikh Imtiaz Mahmood, MPA Hafiz Farhat Abbas, Mian Aslam Iqbal, and Acting President of PTI Punjab Mian Hamad Azhar, have also gone into hiding. This has left workers questioning how to reach Minar-e-Pakistan without guidance from their leaders on October 5.

Police sources have warned that any gathering of more than five people will result in legal action under Section 144. In a further escalation, authorities have blocked the Lahore-Islamabad and Sialkot motorways, as well as the Thokar Niaz Baig interchange, using containers. However, the motorways remain open for traffic heading into Lahore.

Reporters: Usman Khadim, Abid Chaudhry, and Irfan Malik