Violent clashes erupted between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters and Punjab Police near Committee Chowk, further heightening tensions in Rawalpindi.
On Saturday, PTI workers forcefully removed containers placed by the police while chanting slogans and marching towards Liaquat Bagh.
In response, police deployed heavy teargas to disperse the crowd, leading to confrontations that spread along Murree Road. PTI supporters reportedly hurled stones at the officers, prompting authorities to call in additional reinforcements.
Amid the unrest, Punjab Police arrested PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and leader Salman Akram Raja near the H-13 area as they were traveling to Rawalpindi, according to Express News.
Shortly after their detention, Bairastr Goher was released, whereas Salman Akram Raja remains in custody.
Gohar stated that both he and Raja were stopped at H-13 and instructed to return after a disagreement, preventing them from proceeding to Rawalpindi.
The use of tear gas resulted in canisters falling into nearby homes, causing distress among residents, including women and children. Media personnel covering the protests were also affected by the shelling.
Pedestrians navigating the area were caught in the tense situation as PTI workers from China Market, Rialto Chowk, and Committee Chowk gathered on Murree Road.
Despite police efforts, workers continued to congregate at Committee Chowk, Mareer Chowk, and China Market, forcing some officers to retreat and leading to the arrest of several protesters.
The Rawalpindi administration had earlier sealed off key locations, blocked entry points, and deployed thousands of police officers throughout the city.
Section 144 has been imposed from September 28 to 29, banning gatherings, political rallies, and the display of weapons.
In preparation for the planned protests at Liaquat Bagh, officials have placed containers to block major routes, conducted raids, and performed door-to-door searches to detain PTI leaders and active supporters.
Educational institutions, government offices, and hotels in affected areas have been closed, and ambulance access to Murree Road and nearby hospitals has been restricted to prevent disruptions.
Source: Express Tribune