Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has confirmed that Barrister Gohar and Salman Akram Raja were arrested in Islamabad on Thursday. The arrest of PTI leaders in Islamabad has once again heightened political tensions in the country.
Police Detain PTI Leaders Near Sector H-13
According to PTI’s official statement, Islamabad police stopped the vehicle of Barrister Gohar and Salman Akram Raja near Sector H-13. Both were taken into custody and moved to a police van.
Eyewitnesses reported that the area was heavily patrolled by police at the time. The arrest of PTI leaders in Islamabad sparked immediate concern among party members and supporters.
Protests and Clashes in Rawalpindi
Meanwhile, PTI workers held demonstrations at Committee Chowk in Rawalpindi. Protesters clashed with police, throwing stones and chanting slogans against the arrests.
In response, police used tear gas and arrested several PTI workers. Law enforcement has also imposed Section 144 in Rawalpindi to prevent further unrest.
Leaders Released After Short Detention
Later, authorities released both Barrister Gohar and Salman Akram Raja. PTI confirmed that they were detained briefly before being freed.
Barrister Gohar stated, “We were stopped and detained for some time but later released. We are not allowed to proceed to Rawalpindi.”
Section 144 and Security Measures in Place
The Rawalpindi administration has imposed Section 144, restricting public gatherings. All routes from Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Rawalpindi have been sealed.
PTI had earlier announced a major protest rally in Rawalpindi, but heavy police presence and roadblocks have limited movement in and out of the city.
Political Tension on the Rise
The arrest of PTI leaders in Islamabad adds to the ongoing political turmoil in Pakistan. PTI maintains that the government is attempting to silence dissent ahead of planned demonstrations.
As protests continue, security in Islamabad and Rawalpindi remains tight, with law enforcement deployed in large numbers to maintain order.