Section 144 imposed in Karachi district

KARACHI: Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code has been imposed in Karachi's Central District for two days to maintain law and order.

A notification was issued by the Karachi Commissioner on Monday following a request from Additional Inspector General (AIG) of Police Karachi.

The notification cited potential threats from disruptive elements and stated that the law and order situation could deteriorate in the district. Consequently, a ban has been imposed on pillion riding and gatherings of more than four people.

No rallies or demonstrations will be permitted under the restrictions. Law enforcement officers have been directed to take action against violators, with station house officers (SHOs) granted the authority to enforce the order.

Despite the imposition of Section 144, members of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) gathered at 'Mukka Chowk' to mark Martyrs' Day. Police personnel present at the site detained at least 15 individuals for violating the restrictions, according to police sources.

The MQM-London spokesperson, Mustafa Azizabadi, alleged that mass arrests of MQM workers, including former Rabita Committee members such as Nisar Panhwar, Aftab Baqai, Anwar Khan Tarin, Altaf Mengal, and Dr. Bilal, were underway.

The spokesperson added that more arrests were expected as party workers attempted to visit the Martyrs' Monument to offer prayers.

Authorities have reiterated that Section 144 will be strictly enforced, and any violations will lead to arrests.