Pakistan deploys over 52,000 police for Islamabad protest
Pakistani authorities are deploying more than 52,000 security personnel and blocking 30 entry points to the capital to counter planned protest marches by
More than 22,000 security personnel will be deployed in Islamabad, with an additional 30,000 sent to the key district of Attock, to counter planned protest marches by opposition parties. The measures are a direct response to calls for long marches and sit-ins by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), and the Kissan Ittehad farmers' group in the coming week.
Security Deployment and Command
The security operation is being led by a significant command structure. Eight Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) will oversee the deployment in the federal capital. They will be supported by 10 Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs), 40 Superintendents of Police (SPs), and 58 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs). Separate accommodation arrangements have been made for these officers in hotels and guest houses across Islamabad.
A police official told Dawn that Rawalpindi police have requested 9,000 additional personnel to assist local forces. All police leave in Rawalpindi district has been banned until October 1, according to an order issued by City Police Officer Hassan Mushtaq Sukhera.
Blockades and Logistical Preparations
Authorities are seizing a large number of containers to physically block access to the capital. The plan involves blocking 30 entry points to the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with 11 of those blockades specifically in Rawalpindi. The seized containers are being placed along highways and in open spaces.
Logistical preparations for the incoming security forces are extensive. Accommodation for 362 officers and officials has been arranged in 132 rooms across 13 hotels and guest houses in Islamabad. Police and Frontier Constabulary personnel called from other provinces will be housed in government buildings, schools, colleges, sports complexes, marriage halls, and police stations.
The Protest Groups and Their Demands
Three main groups have announced protests converging on Islamabad. The Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) has called a long march to protest against levies on petroleum products. The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) has announced a long march for September 27, demanding the release of its founder, former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The Kissan Ittehad is seeking relief for farmers and has also announced a protest march to the capital.
Focus on the Attock District
A major focus of the security operation is Attock district, which serves as the critical connection between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. A total of 30,000 security personnel have been called to ensure security there. Additional forces have been drawn from various Punjab districts, including Sheikhupura, DG Khan, Multan, and Faisalabad, along with the Punjab Constabulary and Riot Management Police units. Personnel have already begun arriving and reporting to the District Police Officer in Attock.
