Section 144 has been imposed across Punjab for five days after intelligence agencies warned of possible suicide bombings and vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attacks, the provincial government announced on Sunday.
The Home Department notification said the ban, under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, will remain in force from September 13 to September 17. It cited credible reports from law enforcement and intelligence agencies about a serious and imminent threat to public peace, tranquillity and the safety of life and property across Punjab by militant and terrorist organisations and hostile intelligence agencies.
According to the notification, multiple threat alerts were issued about possible attacks involving suicide bombers, VBIEDs and targeted killings. Such attacks, it warned, could be carried out during large public gatherings across Punjab to create mayhem, social unrest and disrupt public peace.
The Home Department said public assemblies and demonstrations could become potential targets for terrorist attacks. It added there was a strong apprehension that certain elements may engage in activities, gatherings or demonstrations likely to cause assemblies of persons.
The Punjab police chief, the Counter-Terrorism Department, the Special Branch of Punjab Police and several district administrations had sought immediate preventive measures in view of the potential threats, according to the notification.
Under the restrictions, processions and gatherings involving five or more people at public places, roads, highways and open spaces have been prohibited from September 13 to September 17. The ban does not cover marriage ceremonies, funeral prayers, prayers at mosques and other places of worship, court proceedings or official government events.
The Home Department also prohibited inciting people to participate in unlawful assemblies. Separately, the government imposed restrictions on carrying, displaying or brandishing weapons at public places. However, that restriction does not apply to law enforcement, intelligence and security personnel while performing their official duties.
The latest measures come as authorities remain on heightened alert over possible militant activity and seek to prevent large gatherings from becoming targets for attacks. The five-day ban under Section 144 is set to remain in place until Thursday, September 17.
Source: Geo News