CHICHAWATNI – A major police crackdown has been launched across Chichawatni and its surrounding areas following the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) call for a nationwide “shutter-down strike” on February 8. In late-night raids, dozens of party workers and local leaders were reportedly detained, sparking concerns over the violation of privacy and civil liberties.
Midnight Raids and High-Profile Arrests
Local sources report that police teams conducted operations in the dead of night, entering homes and taking several active members of the Rai Group/PTI into custody. The crackdown has targeted prominent figures across various police jurisdictions:
Saddar Police Station: Mir Kashif, son of the late former Nazim Mir Razauddin, was arrested from Chak 34/12-L. Other detainees include Sher Afgan, A.D. Waseem (Chak 109/12-L), and Usama Abrar.
City Police Station: Senior leaders Waheed Ahmed K2 and Rao Kalimullah were taken into custody.
Shahkot & Okanwala Bangla: Dr. Rana Majid Khan and Sajid Imran Warraich (81/12-L) were detained by Shahkot police, while Shaukat Warraich was arrested by Okanwala Bangla authorities.
Kassowal Police: Mian Sarwar Arain and the brother of Chaudhry Ghulam Abbas were picked up from Chak 13/14-L.
Additionally, PTI’s active stage secretary, Syed Mir Rameez, and vocal activist Tariq alias Mana are among the many reported to be behind bars.
Communication Blackout and Public Frustration
Coinciding with the arrests, Chichawatni and its suburbs are experiencing a severe mobile internet shutdown. Citizens have expressed deep frustration as the lack of connectivity has disrupted daily life, businesses, and student activities.
Community Reaction: Residents have criticized the timing of the internet “load shedding,” describing it as a tactic to hinder communication and suppress the call for the February 8 protest.
Key Takeaways
Nature of Action: Allegations of violating the sanctity of homes during midnight raids.
Reason for Strike: PTI is marking the second anniversary of what it calls the “stolen mandate” of the 2024 elections.
Current Status: Dozens of “Rai Group” workers remain in detention as the police continue their search for more activists.