Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code has been enforced in Karachi’s Central District for two days to ensure law and order, as per a notification issued by the Karachi Commissioner on Monday at the request of the Additional Inspector General (AIG) of Police Karachi.
The notification highlighted potential threats from disruptive elements, raising concerns about the district’s security. As a result, pillion riding and gatherings of more than four people have been banned, along with rallies and demonstrations. Law enforcement officers have been instructed to take strict action against violators, with station house officers (SHOs) authorized to implement the restrictions.
Despite the ban, members of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) gathered at Mukka Chowk to observe Martyrs’ Day, leading to at least 15 arrests for violating the restrictions, according to police sources. Meanwhile, MQM-London spokesperson Mustafa Azizabadi claimed that authorities were conducting mass arrests of MQM workers, including prominent former Rabita Committee members such as Nisar Panhwar, Aftab Baqai, Anwar Khan Tarin, Altaf Mengal, and Dr. Bilal.