Amid growing violence during protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the federal government has called in the army to assist with maintaining order in the capital.
The Interior Ministry issued a notification under Article 245, which allows the military to help control the situation and take strong action against those causing trouble. The notification also gives the army the authority to impose a curfew if necessary to stop lawlessness.
As per media reports, security forces have been given the power to shoot troublemakers on sight. Authorities are also working to identify and arrest those responsible for violence and disruptions, including extremist elements.
The decision follows a tragic incident on the Srinagar Highway, where PTI protesters reportedly drove a vehicle into Rangers personnel, killing four Rangers and injuring five others. Two police officers were also injured in the attack. So far, the violence has led to the deaths of four Rangers and two police officers. More than 100 police officers have been injured, some critically, highlighting the severity of the ongoing violence.
PTI supporters have gathered in the federal capital at the call of their jailed party leader, demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other issues. They have gathered at D-Chowk and plan to stay there until their demands are addressed.
For the past two days, a security lockdown has been in place in Islamabad to block convoys of PTI protesters, led by Bushra Bibi and KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur. Highways into the city have been blocked with shipping containers, and large numbers of police and paramilitary forces in riot gear are patrolling the streets.