More than 1,300 police officers and security personnel have been deployed across Rawalpindi to maintain law and order ahead of a possible protest by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and a Jamaat-e-Islami gathering at Liaquat Bagh, officials confirmed on Saturday.
According to police authorities, the city has been placed on high alert due to rising political tensions. A strong security presence has been ensured at sensitive locations, major intersections, and entry and exit points to prevent any untoward incident and to keep daily life running smoothly for citizens.
The security plan includes the deployment of two superintendents of police (SPs), seven deputy superintendents of police (DSPs), 29 inspectors and station house officers (SHOs), 92 upper subordinates, and 340 constables. In addition, seven sections of Elite Force commandos, 22 Rapid Emergency and Security Operations (RESO) personnel, and 400 members of the Anti-Riots Management Wing have been put on duty.
Police have set up 32 pickets across the city, each supervised by a senior officer. Elite Force commandos are conducting regular patrols, while personnel have been equipped with full anti-riot gear, including tear gas launchers and rubber bullets, to deal with any emergency situation.
Key areas under tight security include Liaquat Bagh, Committee Chowk, Chandni Chowk, Fawara Chowk, Mandi Mor, Carriage Factory, both sides of Faizabad, Sadiqabad, Metro Station Saddar, 22 Number Chungi, Chohar Chowk, and MH Chowk. Special pickets have also been established on routes leading to Adiala Jail, as well as at Chak Beli Mor, Thallian Interchange, Chakri Interchange, and Jorian.
Officials said all personnel have been directed to remain vigilant, while additional police contingents are on standby at police stations and the security division to respond swiftly to any developing situation.
City Police Officer (CPO) Khalid Hamdani is overseeing command and control operations, with overall supervision being carried out by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Malik Tariq Mehmood.
The heightened security measures come in the wake of increased political tension following the sentencing of former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi to 17 years in prison in the Toshakhana II case. PTI leaders have rejected the verdict and expressed full support for their party founder.
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja said that Imran Khan has urged party workers and supporters to prepare for a street movement, raising concerns of possible protests in the coming days.
Authorities say the security arrangements are precautionary and aimed at ensuring public safety, protecting key installations, and maintaining peace in the city.
