Clashes erupted between supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the Punjab Police near Committee Chowk in Rawalpindi, heightening tensions in the area.
PTI activists forcefully cleared containers set by police, advancing towards Liaquat Bagh while chanting slogans. Police responded with substantial teargas to disperse the protesters, initiating skirmishes that extended along Murree Road. Reports indicate PTI supporters retaliated by pelting stones at officers, leading to a call for more police reinforcements.
During this upheaval, Punjab Police detained PTI Chairman Bairastr Gohar Ali Khan and leader Salman Akram Raja in the H-13 sector as they headed to Rawalpindi. While Bairastr Goher was subsequently released, Salman Akram Raja continued to be held.
According to Goher, they were stopped at H-13 and, following a disagreement, were told to turn back, preventing their journey to Rawalpindi.
The deployment of tear gas adversely affected residents, with canisters landing in homes and causing distress, particularly among women and children. The tear gas also impacted media personnel covering the events.
The confrontation ensnared pedestrians as PTI supporters from China Market, Rialto Chowk, and Committee Chowk converged on Murree Road.
Ahead of the disturbances, the Rawalpindi administration had sealed key locations, restricted entry points, and stationed thousands of police officers throughout the city.
Authorities imposed Section 144 from September 28 to 29, prohibiting gatherings, political rallies, and the display of weapons.
Read: Punjab Government Imposes Section 144 in Rawalpindi Amid PTI Rally Plans
Educational institutions, government offices, and nearby hotels were closed, and ambulance access to Murree Road and nearby hospitals was limited to avoid further disruptions.
