Protestors in different parts of Pakistan have taken to the streets to protest against the arrest
Thousands of Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) members took to the streets yesterday and today in protest after Saad Hussain Rizvi, the current leader of the party as well as the son of their late chief Allama Khadim Hussain Rizvi, was arrested from Lahore.
The protestors mainly blocked the important avenues of major cities, causing traffic jams and delays of hours. Some protestors also burnt rubber tires to make things worse for the travelers. Scuffles between TLP workers and police also broke out, resulting in at least three people including a police constable dying and dozens injured.
Government to maintain its stance
Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed and Minister for Religious Affairs Noor-ul-Haq Qadri held a meeting with law enforcement officials earlier today and decided that stern action will be taken against those creating unrest in the country.
Internet services may be suspended in sensitive areas of the federal capital as a part of dealing with the protestors. The services will remain suspended for 24 hours in Taramri, Faizabad, T Chowk Rawat, Expressway, Athal Chowk, and Bara Kahu.
Twin cities affected by protests
Protestors took on the main avenues of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, causing severe traffic congestions on some major roads. In order to deal with the situation, security has been beefed up in the area. Reinforcements have been sent to the Red Zone Area in Islamabad which includes the Supreme Court, Parliament, PM Secretariat and diplomatic enclaves, along with other important government buildings.
Traffic police are also updating the traffic situation in the twin cities to ensure people can travel without any issues. Murree Road has been cordoned off for all kinds of traffic. Compared with yesterday, most major avenues are open for traffic while diversions have been placed at others.