Army Units Deployed in Islamabad as PTI Protests Escalate Amid Security Concerns for SCO Summit
Rawalpindi/Islamabad: Tensions have escalated in Pakistan’s capital as army units from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) have been dispatched to bolster security in Islamabad and surrounding areas. The move comes amidst ongoing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests that have led to unrest, with security forces ramping up efforts to maintain peace ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, scheduled to be held soon.
According to security sources, the deployment is a precautionary measure to prevent any disruption to the SCO Summit, as well as to protect the public from escalating violence. The government has intensified security across Islamabad, vowing not to allow any disturbances or violent activities to take place in the lead-up to the summit.
“No One Will Be Allowed to Disrupt Peace”
A security official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated, “No one will be allowed to disrupt peace or incite violence during this critical period. These deployments are aimed at safeguarding the public and ensuring that law and order prevail.” The heightened security measures reflect the gravity of the current situation as clashes between PTI supporters and law enforcement continue to spread across the region.
The army’s presence is seen as crucial in neutralizing potential threats posed by armed groups and violent protesters, especially with the capital at the center of political unrest. Officials have emphasized that security operations are focused on preventing violence and maintaining stability, ensuring the safety of both the summit and citizens.
Clashes Intensify in Islamabad
As the PTI protests show no signs of abating, violent clashes have erupted in various parts of Islamabad. On Jinnah Avenue, PTI workers engaged in confrontations with police forces, leading to law enforcement resorting to tear gas to disperse the crowd. Protesters, some equipped with slingshots, launched glass marbles at the police, escalating tensions further. Two armored vehicles from the Islamabad police were deployed to control the situation.
The unrest in the capital has reached a critical point, with PTI supporters previously gathering at D-Chowk, a traditional protest hotspot. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd at D-Chowk as well, leading to the arrest of six protesters. Authorities reported that, nationwide, over 30 PTI workers have been detained as part of efforts to contain the protests.
Tensions Escalate at Burhan Interchange
One of the most significant flashpoints has been the Burhan Interchange, where a convoy of PTI supporters from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa clashed with the police. Tear gas was fired at the protesters as they attempted to make their way into Islamabad, resulting in the arrest of several PTI workers. In response, authorities have sealed off all major routes leading into the capital, cutting off access from Rawalpindi and surrounding areas to prevent further unrest.
Islamabad police confirmed that three individuals were arrested from D-Chowk, including two civilians and one PTI supporter. Tear gas was once again deployed to push back protesters, who retaliated by chanting slogans against the police and the government.
Rawalpindi Faces Widespread Disruption
The neighboring city of Rawalpindi has also seen significant unrest, with key roads, including the busy Murree Road, blocked for more than 16 hours. The road closures have caused severe disruption to public transport, with even motorcyclists struggling to navigate through the containers and barricades erected to prevent protester movement.
Despite heavy security, some PTI supporters managed to breach police barricades. A notable incident occurred when a female PTI supporter reached D-Chowk and began shouting slogans in favor of PTI and against the government. Her arrival sparked a brief moment of chaos among law enforcement, who swiftly detained her and moved her to a nearby station.
Several major roads in Rawalpindi, including Cheering Cross, MH Chowk, and Mall Road in Saddar, have been sealed from both sides, while other key routes such as Flashman Road, Marrir Chowk, and Double Road Stadium remain closed. The City Traffic Police in Rawalpindi has urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel due to the ongoing disruptions, though motorcycles are allowed to use some major roads linking the twin cities.
Air Travel Unaffected Despite Ground Chaos
Amidst the widespread blockades, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has assured passengers that both domestic and international flights will continue as scheduled. Travelers are advised to plan their journeys to Islamabad Airport carefully, taking into account alternative routes and road closures.
To maintain public order, Section 144 has been imposed in key cities across Punjab, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha. This regulation bans political gatherings, protests, and demonstrations, and has been enforced with the deployment of Rangers in Rawalpindi, Attock, and Lahore. The Rangers, in collaboration with local police, are working to ensure law and order throughout the protests.
Meanwhile, Rawalpindi Metro Bus services remain suspended, and double-riding on motorcycles has been prohibited across the city. Islamabad police are also continuing to enforce Section 144, warning citizens against participating in any illegal activities.
