Islamabad and Rawalpindi started to recover from recent unrest as police cleared Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protesters in Muridke on Sunday night.
The operation successfully ended a sit-in on GT Road, leading to the restoration of traffic flow. Key routes such as IJP Road, Double Road, Expressway, and Ninth Avenue have reopened. On Murree Road, shops and businesses resumed their activities. Additionally, educational institutions in Rawalpindi reopened after being closed for four days.
Despite the closure of the Murree Road to Faizabad route, Metro Bus services remain suspended. Fortunately, mobile and data services have been fully restored, which eases communication for residents.
پنجاب پولیس کا ایک اور بہادر جوان فرض کی راہ پر قربان..
ایس ایچ او فیکٹری ایریا شیخوپورہ شہزاد نواز نے امن و امان کے قیام، شہریوں کی جان و مال کی حفاظت کے دوران، ملک کی خاطر جان کا نذرانہ پیش کر دیا، مسلح جتھوں کی فائرنگ سے جام شہادت نوش کر گئے۔ آئی جی پنجاب ڈاکٹر عثمان انور کا… pic.twitter.com/m1TeJ3yDpF
— Punjab Police Official (@OfficialDPRPP) October 13, 2025
The TLP’s march from Lahore to Islamabad, which protested US support for Israel, resulted in violence in Lahore. DIG Operations Faisal Kamran reported that 112 police officers were injured and over 100 protesters were arrested. The demonstrators vandalised the Shahdara Town police station and caused damage to both public and private property.
Adviser Rana Sanaullah urged TLP to end the march, citing national challenges. “Political unity is crucial,” he said, noting widespread concern from political and religious groups.
آج کے دن شہادت پانے والے عظیم شہداء کو سلام عقیدت #PunjabPolice #Martyrs pic.twitter.com/6q6cCrUBL2
— Punjab Police Official (@OfficialDPRPP) October 13, 2025
On October 12, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Lahore on the security situation. The meeting reviewed counter-terrorism strategies and measures to maintain peace. Sharif praised Naqvi’s efforts, emphasising the government’s commitment to the rule of law and eradicating terrorism to protect citizens.
The clearance restores stability but highlights tensions around protests and security. Ongoing closures and Metro Bus suspension signal cautious recovery.