Govt grants special powers to Rangers, FC ahead of PTI protest

The federal government has granted special powers to the Rangers and the Frontier Corps (FC) in preparation for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24.

A written order from the Ministry of Interior confirmed that both law enforcement agencies would be empowered under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997 to assist local police in maintaining law and order during the demonstration in Islamabad.

According to the directive, the Punjab Rangers and FC will support Islamabad police to ensure peace and security across the capital during the protest.

The government has also mobilized significant law enforcement resources from various regions to maintain control and prevent any disruptions.

In anticipation of the protest, Islamabad police have requested additional assistance from law enforcement agencies in Punjab and Sindh.

The Punjab government will deploy two additional Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs) and ten District Police Officers (DPOs), each accompanied by five hundred personnel.

Additionally, two thousand personnel from the Sindh and Punjab Constabulary will be sent to assist, and both Rangers and Punjab police will be equipped with anti-riot kits.

To bolster security, a total of 4,000 Rangers and 5,000 FC personnel will be stationed throughout Islamabad. Rangers will operate with anti-riot gear to ensure the protest remains peaceful.

In Punjab, 10,700 police officers have been placed on standby to prevent any disturbances related to the PTI protest.

An official memo from the Additional Inspector General (AIG) confirmed the mobilization of personnel from various police units across the province in preparation for the event.

Authorities have also vowed to take strict action against any individuals or groups attempting to disrupt public order during the protest.