LAHORE: In a sweeping security operation, the Punjab government has deployed over 42,000 police personnel across the province in a pre-emptive move to thwart planned demonstrations by TLP Protests scheduled for Friday.
The decision comes amid rising concerns over potential unrest following a call by TLP Balochistan president Wazir Ahmad Rizvi for supporters to gather at Data Darbar, Lahore, after Friday prayers. Intelligence reports have warned of possible violent clashes similar to previous TLP Protests.
Punjab’s police command, led by Inspector General Dr Usman Anwar, has formulated an aggressive plan to round up TLP leaders and activists before the protests. The strategy includes late-night raids, surveillance using AI-powered Safe City cameras, and collaboration with Special Branch officers in plain clothes.
The decision to ban TLP is being linked to some crucial meetings, where its record of violent agitations, fatal attacks on the law enforcers, and the ransacking of Christian and Ahmadiyya places of worship came under discussion.https://t.co/MeXEDJiJYJ
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) October 16, 2025
Of the total deployment, 30,000 uniformed officers will be stationed at key locations, while 12,000 plainclothes officers have been tasked with intelligence gathering and pre-emptive arrests.
Authorities have also declared multiple locations in Lahore as sensitive, including Multan Road, Shahdara, Chungi Amar Sidhu, Baghbanpura, Thokar Niaz Baig, and Babu Sabu interchange — all previously linked to violent TLP demonstrations.
Section 144 has been imposed province-wide, banning all gatherings, processions, and rallies. The police have been directed to deal with law violators under anti-terrorism laws, with charges carrying sentences of up to 14 years.
You May Also Like: Punjab to Recommend Ban on TLP Following Violent Protests, Mass Arrests
Dr Anwar confirmed that any attack on law enforcement or damage to property will be met with “iron-handed” action, reinforcing the government’s resolve to maintain law and order.
This crackdown follows a broader provincial move to seek a federal ban on TLP and take action against its assets, media, and financial networks.
