NACTA issues terror threat alert ahead of PTI protests

The National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) has issued a terror threat alert as PTI prepares for nationwide protests to demand the release of its chairman, Imran Khan, from Adiala Jail, reported 24NewsHD TV Channel on Sunday.

According to the alert, terrorists from Fitna al Khawarij are reportedly planning attacks in major cities, with a specific focus on targeting rallies and public gatherings. 

Intelligence reports have indicated the presence of militants in various urban areas, raising fears of potential violence during the demonstrations.

In response, authorities have directed heightened security measures across the country. 

The channel reported that officials have instructed law enforcement agencies to increase vigilance and secure key locations to prevent any untoward incidents.

The PTI’s planned protests today are expected to draw large crowds, further amplifying concerns about public safety amidst the looming threat. 

Security forces have been put on high alert to safeguard participants and ensure the situation remains under control.

Federal capital hospitals put on high alert 

All hospitals in Islamabad were put on high alert while large police contingents were deployed at the entry and exit points of the federal capital as the federal government pulled up its socks to deal with the PTI’s protest.

30,000 LEAs personnel guard Islamabad

The government remained firm on Sunday to maintain law and order situation in the federal capital in light of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) order as 30,000 personnel of the law-enforcement agencies (LEAs) were called in from Sindh, Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to reinforce the security ahead of the PTI’s protest. 

All roads, leading from Rawalpindi to Islamabad, were blocked by placing containers, while heavy contingents of the LEAs were deployed at the exit and entry points of the twin cities. 

Frontier Constabulary (FC) and Pakistan Rangers personnel took their positions at Chungi No 26, Tarnol, Sangjani and D-Chowk areas of the capital city. 

Six thousand police personnel were performing their duties to thwart any attempt of PTI workers to enter the federal capital.

Besides that, the movement of PTI workers towards Islamabad at 70 locations was monitored with the help of CCTV cameras.

Police Mobile Service was fully operational while Metro Bus Service was also suspended.

Police officials, on the other hand, said that no one would be allowed to take the law into his own hands. 

If somebody would try to create a law and order situation, he would be dealt with an iron hand, they announced.

Reporter: Babar Shahzad Turk