Karachi police quell TLP protest rumours, say ‘city situation normal’

The Karachi police have dismissed widespread rumours about sit-ins and protests in different parts of the city, assuring citizens that the situation is peaceful and under control.

Reports and videos on social media had claimed that Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) members were staging protests in Karachi, just hours after unrest settled down in Punjab. However, police clarified that no sit-ins or demonstrations were taking place anywhere in the city.

Officials said that in some areas, a few shops were closed by locals themselves due to unverified reports, but there was no major disturbance.

Section 144 in Effect

Police also reminded the public that Section 144 is already imposed across Karachi, banning all protests, rallies, and large gatherings. No group or individual has been given permission to hold demonstrations.

A brief protest earlier held near Sindhi Hotel in New Karachi had also ended, and the road has been reopened for traffic, officials confirmed.

Sindh Government’s Province-Wide Ban

On Sunday, the Sindh government announced a province-wide ban on protests and public gatherings under Section 144 for one month — from October 12 to November 12 — to maintain law and order.

The notification, issued by the Home Department at the request of the Inspector General (IG) Sindh, stated that the move was aimed at preventing groups from assembling in ways that could threaten public safety.

Situation in Other Cities

Meanwhile, normalcy returned to Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Monday after police successfully cleared GT Road and removed TLP protesters following a late-night operation.

Authorities in Karachi urged the public to avoid spreading rumours and rely only on official updates for accurate information.

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